Manager - Purchasing

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise offering end-to-end launch services, spacecraft design and production, satellite components, and more. Our mission is to facilitate space access, supporting cutting-edge scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate initiatives, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations worldwide. Our Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites. We are also developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable rocket for larger constellation deployments. Our Space Systems division designs and manufactures satellites and components, contributing to NASA projects for the Moon and Mars, and instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope.

Supply Chain Overview

Our Supply Chain team ensures smooth material and product flow throughout the company. With many critical components made in-house for our programs, this team directly impacts the success of our rocket and satellite missions by managing assembly kits, inventory, procurement, shipping, receiving, and compliance inspection.

Role Summary

Based in Auckland, NZ, the Purchasing Manager will lead and develop the direct material procurement team for New Zealand operations. This team purchases materials for launch and space systems, supporting R&D, new product introduction, and production scaling. Reporting to the Director of Procurement (NZ), this role primarily focuses on machining commodity purchases including aluminum, composites, and 3D printed materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing procurement team specializing in raw material commodities for Launch and Space programs.
• Manage procurement activities for direct materials to support production demands and rapid engineering advances.
• Develop and implement a global commodity strategy to achieve optimal cost, quality, and delivery aligned with growth objectives.
• Negotiate material pricing using cost modeling to influence design and engineering decisions.
• Represent Rocket Lab externally, managing supplier relationships and overseeing performance through scorecards, dispute resolution, and business reviews.
• Collaborate internally and externally to optimize sourcing and procurement strategies emphasizing cost efficiency, quality, and growth.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to resolve scheduling, inventory, delivery, cost, and quality challenges.
• Monitor supplier performance on quality, on-time delivery, and pricing.
• Act as the main liaison between Supply Chain and internal stakeholders including leadership, engineering, accounting, and manufacturing.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of procurement and planning data within the ERP system.
• Conduct market research to discover new supplier capabilities and potential partnerships supporting business objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years in purchasing, including leadership roles in dynamic environments, supported by a bachelor's degree or equivalent 12+ years relevant experience.
• Strong collaborative skills with experience working cross-functionally to achieve company-wide goals.
• Demonstrated expertise in supplier sourcing, onboarding, and price contracting.
• Proven ability to design team strategies and operational plans aligned with long-term visions.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 10% of the time.

Preferred Attributes

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving capabilities with effective prioritization skills.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to multitask, work effectively in fast-paced environments, meet deadlines, and contribute as a team player.
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, or other innovative manufacturing sectors.
• Familiarity with rapid-growth business environments.
• Knowledge of AS9100 standards and U.S. export control regulations (ITAR and EAR).

Additional Requirements

• Prolonged desk work involving computer and office equipment usage.
• Visual requirements including document review and screen viewing.
• Mobility to move between work areas and attend meetings.
• Occasional exposure to production settings with moderate noise, dust, and fumes.

Important Information

The role supports New Zealand operations. Candidates must be eligible to work under U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), requiring citizenship or nationality from specified countries (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU, NATO members) and not holding ineligible dual citizenships. Background and nationality checks will be completed prior to offers. Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and prohibits discrimination.