Senior Director Of Supply Chain & Contracts

Capella Space stands at the forefront of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology and signal intelligence. We provide customers in governments, academia, and commercial sectors with reliable information that enables unparalleled understanding of the world. Our mission is centered on delivering timely and reliable Earth imagery, supporting diverse applications in defense & intelligence, disaster response, energy, environmental monitoring and more. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, Capella Space designs, manufactures and operates an advanced constellation of SAR imaging satellites. Our market-leading SAR satellites are complemented by an unmatched data infrastructure and automated ordering and delivery platform for fast, reliable insights where and when customers need it most. 

Recognized for our technological prowess, Capella Space was honored as one of the 10 most innovative companies in Space in 2023 by FASTCOMPANY. Capella Space is an internationally trusted Earth Observation data provider, working closely with the U.S. Space Systems Command, U.S. Space Force, NASA, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. National Reconnaissance Office, the Canadian Government and more to make unclassified, high-resolution SAR data more accessible.  

What Makes Capella Unique? 

Capella Space is a highly collaborative team environment, providing an opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the space industry, though no prior space experience is needed.  We’re looking for people excited about tackling seemingly impossible challenges, learning new skills and concepts, and helping each other achieve success. Our mission and our products are meant to understand the whole world and help everyone in it - regardless of race, creed, or any other distinction. We encourage you to bring your unique perspective to help make us stronger, including applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. 

About the Role

As the Senior Director of Contracts and Supply Chain at Capella Space, you will join a dynamic and innovative team, rapidly scaling to meet significant growth projections.  Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, your primary responsibility will be to oversee the strategic and operational aspects of contract management (customer and supply facing) and supply chain functions within the organization. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of our supply chain operations, as well as the negotiation and management of contracts that support our space missions. You will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, mitigating risks, and facilitating effective communication between various stakeholders. This position requires a deep understanding of legal and contractual frameworks, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to work in a dynamic and rapidly evolving space environment. 

 

Key Responsibilities: 

Strategic Leadership: 

• Develop and implement long-term strategies for supply chain and contract management to support company goals. 
• Develop and lead a team of professionals in contracts administration, procurement, and supply chain management. 
• Establish and maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, partners, and stakeholders. 

Contract Management: 

• Oversee the negotiation, execution, and administration of contracts with customers, suppliers, and partners. 
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and company policies. 
• Develop and maintain contract templates and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain an organized and accessible contract management system. 

Supply Chain Management: 

• Optimize supply chain operations to ensure cost-effective procurement, timely delivery, and high-quality standards. 
• Implement best practices in sourcing, procurement, and subcontract management. 
• Manage risks related to supply chain disruptions and develop contingency plans. 

Performance Metrics: 

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for contracts and supply chain activities. 
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. 

Team Development: 

• Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team. 
• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment. 

Budget and Financial Management: 

• Develop and manage the budget for contracts and supply chain departments. 
• Ensure financial objectives are met, including cost savings and profitability targets. 

Stakeholder Collaboration: 

• Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, legal, finance, quality and other departments to align supply chain and contracts strategies with overall business objectives. 
• Represent the company in negotiations and at industry events. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in supply chain management and/or contract administration, preferably within the aerospace or defense industry.
• Proven experience in a senior leadership role with a track record of managing cross-functional teams.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in supply chain management software and tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong knowledge and experience contracting with FAR/DFAR
• Working knowledge of import/export regulations
• Willingness to travel as needed
• Security Clearance  
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Desired Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Law, Supply Chain Management, or related field 
• Experience establishing a Certified Procurement System (CPSR) and CPSR audits. 
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CPSM, CSCP, CFCM, FAC-C, etc.) 
• Strategic Sourcing and/or Category Management experience 

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $176,035 - $196,067. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education, qualification, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location and calibrated against relevant market data and internal team equity.  Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.    

Benefits/Perks 

In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation: 

• We offer up to 100% paid medical coverage, with robust vision and dental plans, comprehensive flexible spending accounts, and supplemental health plans 
• Equity 
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement planning 
• Generous Parental Leave 
• Flexible Paid Time Off Policy 
• Commuter & Parking Benefits 
• Mental Health Resources 
• Monthly phone stipend 
• Daily provided lunches and stocked kitchens.  
• Furry friends? We’ve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with pet insurance options 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process, please notify recruiting@capellaspace.com 

To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/  and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!