Cerebras Systems builds the world's largest AI chip, 56 times larger than GPUs. Our novel wafer-scale architecture provides the AI compute power of dozens of GPUs on a single chip, with the programming simplicity of a single device. This approach allows Cerebras to deliver industry-leading training and inference speeds and empowers machine learning users to effortlessly run large-scale ML applications, without the hassle of managing hundreds of GPUs or TPUs.

Cerebras' current customers include top model labs, global enterprises, and cutting-edge AI-native startups. OpenAI recently announced a multi-year partnership with Cerebras, to deploy 750 megawatts of scale, transforming key workloads with ultra high-speed inference.

Thanks to the groundbreaking wafer-scale architecture, Cerebras Inference offers the fastest Generative AI inference solution in the world, over 10 times faster than GPU-based hyperscale cloud inference services. This order of magnitude increase in speed is transforming the user experience of AI applications, unlocking real-time iteration and increasing intelligence via additional agentic computation.

Job Summary:

The Director of Strategic Sourcing for Contract Manufacturers is responsible for leading the development and execution of global sourcing strategies for outsourced manufacturing services. This role drives cost optimization, supplier performance, and risk management across the contract manufacturing supply base, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities Area Responsibilities Strategic Leadership
Develop and implement global sourcing strategies for contract manufacturers, including EMS providers, to support business growth and cost objectives.

Supplier Relationship Management:

Build and maintain strategic partnerships with key contract manufacturers; lead negotiations for contracts, pricing, and service level agreements.

Cost & Value Optimization:

Drive cost reduction and value creation initiatives through should-cost modeling, total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, and continuous improvement programs.

Risk & Compliance:

Identify and mitigate supply chain risks; ensure compliance with quality, ethical, and regulatory standards across all contract manufacturers.

Cross-functional Alignment
Collaborate with engineering, operations, quality, and finance teams to align sourcing strategies with product development, production, and business goals.

Market & Industry Intelligence:

Monitor industry trends, technological advancements, and geopolitical factors impacting contract manufacturing; provide strategic recommendations to leadership.

Performance Metrics
Establish and track KPIs for supplier performance, cost savings, and supply chain efficiency; report progress to executive leadership.

Qualifications & Skills Requirement Details Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.

Experience:

10+ years in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in contract manufacturing or EMS.

Industry Knowledge
Deep understanding of contract manufacturing processes, global supply chain dynamics, and electronics industry trends.

Leadership
Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, managing global suppliers, and driving significant cost savings.

Negotiation & Communication:

Exceptional negotiation, stakeholder management, and executive presentation skills.

Tools & Systems:

Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), spend analytics, and advanced Excel.

• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Year-over-year cost savings and value creation from contract manufacturing spend

• Supplier performance scores (quality, delivery, cost, innovation)

• Supply chain risk mitigation and business continuity planning effectiveness

• Stakeholder satisfaction and alignment with business objectives

Why This Role Matters:

This leadership position is critical in shaping the company’s outsourcing strategy, ensuring competitive advantage through cost-effective, high-quality, and reliable contract manufacturing partnerships.

The base salary range for this position is $200,000 to $300,000 annually. Actual compensation may include bonus and equity, and will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, and qualifications.

Why Join Cerebras:

People who are serious about software make their own hardware. At Cerebras we have built a breakthrough architecture that is unlocking new opportunities for the AI industry. With dozens of model releases and rapid growth, we’ve reached an inflection point in our business. Members of our team tell us there are five main reasons they joined Cerebras:

• Build a breakthrough AI platform beyond the constraints of the GPU.

• Publish and open source their cutting-edge AI research.

• Work on one of the fastest AI supercomputers in the world.

• Enjoy job stability with startup vitality.

• Our simple, non-corporate work culture that respects individual beliefs.

Read our blog: Five Reasons to Join Cerebras in 2026.

Apply today and become part of the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in AI!

*Cerebras Systems is committed to creating an equal and diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. **We celebrate different backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe inclusive teams build better products and companies.*We try every day to build a work environment that empowers people to do their best work through continuous learning, growth and support of those around them.

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