Description We are seeking a highly motivated Supply Chain Manager to support complex defense programs by managing supplier performance, subcontract execution, procurement activities, and program objectives throughout the contract lifecycle. This role serves as a critical liaison between suppliers, program management, engineering, manufacturing, contracts, and executive leadership to ensure successful delivery of products and services that meet cost, schedule, quality, and technical requirements.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in defense contracting, supplier management, subcontract administration, and cross-functional program execution within a fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:- Execute and manage suppliers from contract award through closeout, ensuring performance against cost, schedule, technical, and quality objectives.
- Develop and maintain effective supplier relationships to support program execution and organizational goals.
- Oversee supplier planning activities across multiple subsystems and functional areas critical to program success.
- Monitor and track supplier performance within Integrated Master Schedules (IMS).
- Lead supplier performance reviews, risk assessments, corrective actions, and mitigation planning.
- Drive accountability for supplier performance metrics and contractual obligations.
- Manage subcontractor execution, including delivery of technical data, documentation, milestones, and contractual requirements.
Program & Business Operations:- Support Program Management and Contracts teams with subcontract requirements, negotiations, and supplier engagement activities.
- Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure suppliers effectively support program objectives.
- Partner with leadership on budgeting, resource planning, forecasting, and contract profitability analysis.
- Support business development activities, proposals, and new business captures within the defense portfolio.
- Identify supply chain risks and develop mitigation strategies to minimize program impact.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, customer requirements, and government regulations.
Continuous Improvement:- Support quality initiatives and process improvement efforts aligned with ISO 9001 and organizational objectives.
- Recommend and implement best practices in supplier management, subcontract administration, and procurement processes.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Requirements Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university.
- Minimum 5 years of professional supply chain, procurement, subcontract, or program support experience.
- Minimum 3 years of experience supporting U.S. Defense Industry programs.
- Experience managing suppliers and subcontractors throughout the contract lifecycle.
- Experience with ERP procurement and supply chain management systems.
- Strong experience working with engineering and manufacturing teams to support complex program requirements.
- Strong communication, presentation, briefing, conflict resolution, and strategic planning skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFARS).
- Knowledge of Subcontract Program Management (SPM) methodologies, tools, and best practices.
- Experience supporting aerospace, defense, engineering technology, or advanced manufacturing organizations.
- Familiarity with Integrated Master Scheduling (IMS) principles and supplier performance tracking.
- Experience supporting proposal development, business captures, and contract pursuits.
- Understanding of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and continuous improvement initiatives.
Desired Skills & Competencies - Strong subcontract management and supplier relationship management capabilities.
- Proven experience negotiating pricing, statements of work, and contract terms and conditions.
- Excellent business acumen with the ability to make sound business decisions.
- Advanced analytical, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated sense of urgency, initiative, and self-motivation.
- Ability to engage and influence supplier senior leadership when resolving performance issues.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficiency with:
- Microsoft Word
- Outlook
- Teams
- PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Excel
- Ability to successfully manage competing priorities while meeting deadlines.
Travel Requirements- Ability to travel within the United States as needed, approximately 20%.
Technology Doesn't Change the World, People Do.
Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.
Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.
2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.
Never miss an opportunity! Create an alert based on the job you applied for.