Global Procurement Manager

Position: Global Procurement Manager

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Department: Supply Chain / Operations

Location: Boulder, CO

Experience: BS 8 Years

Watchmaker Genomics is an early-stage life science company based in Boulder, Colorado. Our team is passionate about innovation and values collaboration, creativity and scientific rigor. We believe the intersection of biology, engineering and computer science presents exciting opportunities for developing novel technologies that promote research and improve human health. Watchmaker Genomics specializes in the design, development and production of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes that enable high-growth applications in genomics, molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine.

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Global Procurement Manager.

This position reports to the Supply Chain Director and will be responsible for managing overall procurement strategies according to the manufacturing plan. This individual will be accountable for establishing key supplier relationships to ensure material availability for manufacturing across both Cape Town, South Africa and Boulder, Colorado sites.

The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. The position provides an opportunity to grow and develop as a leader.

Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement Planning

• Develop and implement global procurement strategies aligned with company goals.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and negotiate contracts with suppliers.
• Proactively establish master supply agreements and contracts with key raw material suppliers to ensure consistent supply, leveraging advantaged pricing.

Supplier Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key global suppliers.
• Evaluate, select and qualify suppliers to meet the company’s quality standards.
• Monitor, manage, and report supplier performance metrics, ensuring adherence to quality standards and delivery timelines.

Cost Efficiency Optimization

• Implement cost-reduction strategies without compromising quality.
• Optimize procurement processes and supply chain efficiency across regions.
• Monitor and control inventory value

Risk Management

• Identify potential supply chain risks, such as geopolitical factors, currency fluctuations, and supplier instability.
• Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies.
• Ensure the availability of critical materials and services to minimize supply chain disruptions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborates with various departments (e.g., Finance, Process Development, R&D, and Operations) to align procurement activities with business needs.
• Participate in New Product Development core team to facilitate strategic sourcing at early product pipeline stage.
• Ensure procurement decisions support product development, manufacturing and overall business strategy.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Use data analytics to track procurement performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide regular reports to senior management on cost savings, supplier performance, and global procurement activities.
• Implement procurement technologies to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Leadership and Team Management

• Lead and manage of team of procurement professionals across different regions.
• Set performance objectives, mentor, and develop staff to ensure a high-performing procurement team.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement team.

Sustainability and Innovation

• Promote and implement sustainable procurement practices.
• Drive sustainability initiatives within the procurement organization.
• Stay informed about technological advancements and innovations in procurement to drive continuous improvements in processes and outcomes.

Skills and Requirements

The candidate should have at minimum a BS in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance or related field, with 5-10 years of relevant industry experience, including manufacturing, supply chain, or quality control, preferably with a global or multi-national environment. Broad knowledge of life science reagents or genomics is a plus.

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• In-depth knowledge of procurement processes, supply chain management, and strategic sourcing.
• Understanding of global supplier markets, pricing trends, and sourcing opportunities.
• Familiarity with contracts, supplier agreements and compliance regulations.
• Strong negotiation skills for securing favorable terms with suppliers.
• Ability to build and manage long-term relationships with global suppliers.
• Proficiency in supplier performance management and developing partnerships for continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial analysis and cost reduction strategies.
• Capability to develop KPIs and metrics for evaluating procurement efficiency.
• Proven leadership ability in managing and developing global procurement teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to foster teamwork and collaboration across regions.
• Knowledge of international trade regulations, import/export compliance, and procurement ethics.
• Commitment to sustainable procurement practices and corporate social responsibility.
• Exceptional attention to detail and cross-functional communication skills
• Ability to read, write, and edit working documents

Education & Experience

• An undergraduate degree in a relevant business or supply chain discipline is required
• Minimum of eight (8 ) years in scientific or related industry, functional scope across manufacturing, supply chain, and quality

Compensation

The base compensation for the Global Procurement Manager role starts at $105,000-$115,000 bonus equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience. Employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off, Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D, Short Term Disability, paid parental leave, and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Application Procedure

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:

• Letter of motivation
• Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested.

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WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in the United States of America; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in the United States.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.