Partner Sourcing Manager - Hybrid

Cisco • San Jose, CA

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

Partner Sourcing Managers are integral to our Supply Chain Operations, focusing on strategic sourcing and robust partner management to support Cisco's product portfolio. We are a collaborative team dedicated to innovation, continuous improvement, and driving strategic value through our EMS, OEM, and ODM partnerships.
As a Partner Sourcing Manager, you will be instrumental in optimizing Cisco's supply chain by developing and leading strategic relationships with our key manufacturing partners. Your expertise will ensure the delivery of the best value chain in the world, directly impacting our product portfolio and operational efficiency. You will be responsible for establishing and executing end-to-end solutions sourcing strategies for a diverse group of Cisco Products, with a strong emphasis on partner engagement and cost optimization.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in sourcing, commodity management, partner management, and supply chain management.
• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Strong foundational knowledge of sourcing practices and advanced negotiation strategies, with a consistent track record in cost negotiation.
• Validated knowledge of the EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services), OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) supply base industry.
• Understanding of supply chain management requirements across all phases of the product development and manufacturing process cycle.
• Excellent communication skills (presentation, written, verbal) capable of articulating both technical and non-technical issues effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate sourcing processes and achieve operational scalability.

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree preferred
• Equally adept at influencing engineering and New Product Introduction (NPI) teams, as well as senior management.
• Capable of influencing internal decision-makers and external partners to align with strategies and objectives that benefit the entire organization.
• Effective team-building skills, fostering collaboration between different functional areas.
• Significant and diverse management experience preferred.
• Ability to develop collaborative solutions leveraging both business acumen and technical expertise.
• Demonstrated record of sound decision-making on complex programs, effective conflict resolution, maintaining deadlines, and exhibiting leadership across organizations.
• Proven team leadership and people development skills are highly desirable.
• Knowledge of Cisco product and solutions platforms (e.g., access, IP NGN, video, switching, routing, and system architecture) along with their current and future technology requirements is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Act as a key business partner to Global Manufacturing Operations (GMO), Product Operations, and various Business Units, driving sourcing strategy and new business awards.
• Develop, nurture, and manage strategic relationships with our EMS, OEM, and ODM partners, ensuring tight-knit collaboration and performance alignment.
• Deliver comprehensive supply chain partner solutions for both new and sustaining Cisco Product Segments, ensuring alignment with technology, product, and supply chain roadmaps.
• Drive continuous improvement of our overall Sourcing Strategy, ensuring Cisco remains at the forefront of supply chain solutions in the industry.
• Build and nurture positive relationships with leadership teams across multiple functions, including Business Unit, Product Operations, Quality, Manufacturing Operations, and Global Supply Management (GSM).
• Demonstrate strong leadership and collaboration skills, developing timely solutions to complex supply chain challenges in high-pressure environments to resolve critical business problems.
• Develop and execute robust sourcing strategies, cultivate strong partner relationships, and drive the most beneficial solutions for Cisco.
• Lead complex negotiations with partners, focusing on cost reduction, contract terms, and performance metrics. Leverage data-driven insights from 'Should Cost' models and market intelligence to achieve optimal pricing and value.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within Sourcing processes and strategy, including dual sourcing of platforms and PIDs, product specification change management, and re-evaluation of product moves sourcing processes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees