Sr. Director, Indirect Procurement

d-Matrix • Santa Clara, CA

6d • $185,000 - $285,000

About The Position

At d-Matrix, we are focused on unleashing the potential of generative AI to power the transformation of technology. We are at the forefront of software and hardware innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Our culture is one of respect and collaboration. We value humility and believe in direct communication. Our team is inclusive, and our differing perspectives allow for better solutions. We are seeking individuals passionate about tackling challenges and are driven by execution. Ready to come find your playground? Together, we can help shape the endless possibilities of AI.

POSITION SUMMARY
d-Matrix is seeking a Senior Director, Indirect Procurement to own and scale our indirect and corporate procurement function. This individual-contributor role covers IP and software licensing, consulting and professional services, engineering lab equipment, and corporate services. Direct materials procurement is handled separately by Supply Chain; this role supports Operations tangentially but does not own component or wafer sourcing.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in contract negotiation, vendor management, and IP licensing within a semiconductor or AI hardware environment, and is comfortable building scalable procurement infrastructure in a high-growth startup.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field; MBA a plus. CPSM, CSCP, or CPIM valued.
• 7+ years of progressive procurement experience across at least two of: IP/software licensing, engineering services contracting, and hardware/capital equipment.
• Semiconductor, AI hardware, or high-tech electronics background required; familiarity with EDA toolchains and IP licensing structures is a strong differentiator.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate complex commercial agreements — royalty structures, limitation-of-liability provisions — in partnership with legal counsel.
• Experience with international vendor relationships including cross-border contracting and import/export compliance.
• Hands-on with procurement and ERP tools; NetSuite and Zip experience highly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• MBA a plus.
• CPSM, CSCP, or CPIM valued.
• Familiarity with EDA toolchains and IP licensing structures is a strong differentiator.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies, policies, and governance frameworks across all indirect and corporate spend categories.
• Lead RFQ/RFP processes and competitive bidding; evaluate vendors on cost, quality, risk, and strategic fit.
• Negotiate and execute IP license agreements, MSAs, SOWs, and capital equipment contracts to secure favorable terms while managing legal and operational risk.
• Own the end-to-end procure-to-pay process via Zip and NetSuite; maintain supplier records, renewal dates, spend analytics, and performance scorecards.
• Drive year-over-year cost reduction through renegotiation, consolidation, and volume leverage.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Finance, Legal, HR, and Operations to align procurement timelines to project milestones and function as a proactive business partner.
• Ensure compliance with trade regulations, export controls, and ethical sourcing standards across all engagements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director