ACARA Jobs
Sr. Director of Purchasing (Aerospace)
Apply- ID: 558444
- Posted: 3/23/2026
- Location: Norwalk, CA
- Category: Pro - Professional
- Job Type: Direct Placement
- Duration: Direct Placement
Description
Acara Solutions has been providing aerospace and other advanced manufacturing firms with our staffing services since the 1950's. Our international aerospace client has an onsite opening for a Senior Director of Purchasing in their Norwalk, CA area plant (Los Angeles region). The salary target range is $200k - $220k plus bonus. Reports to the COO.
The hands-on and strategic Senior Director of Purchasing is a strategic and hands-on leader responsible for managing and optimizing global supply chain operations, sourcing strategies, and all day-to-day purchasing activities in support of supply chain and operations requirements for the ground support business unit, which includes global manufacturing sites in the USA, Portugal, and Thailand, and other potential new sites as may be developed. Additionally, the role oversees performance and oversight of our global supply chain partners. This role oversees procurement, production planning, inventory control, supplier performance, and material logistics across a global supplier network. The Director ensures alignment with regulatory requirements (e.g., AS9100, ITAR), corporate objectives, customer expectations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
This individual collaborates cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Program Management, and Manufacturing to ensure the seamless flow of materials, on-time program delivery, and cost-effective execution in a highly regulated, complex environment. The ideal candidate is technically adept, thrives in a dynamic environment, is prepared to be hands-on as needed, and is comfortable balancing both tactical and strategic responsibilities and global site visits. Strong communication, data-driven decision making, and process ownership are essential to success.
Responsibilities:
- Lead global supply chain operations, including strategic sourcing, procurement, production planning, logistics, and inventory management across domestic and international sites for our ground support business unit.
- Build and manage a high-performing team overseeing Purchasing, Planning, and Inventory Control functions.
- Develop and implement global supply chain strategies that reduce lead times, mitigate risk, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive operational efficiency.
- Oversee supplier selection, qualification, contract negotiation, and performance management with a focus on AS9100 compliance and supplier scorecards.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Program Management, and Quality to define critical path items, manage lead-time-sensitive components, and ensure timely product launches.
- Monitor and manage global inventory levels (including consignment and VMI) to balance availability, working capital, and customer demands.
- Leverage ERP/MRP systems-specifically Global Shop Solutions and/or Epicor-to maintain accurate material requirements, BOMs, routings, and cost estimates. Support digital transformation initiatives within supply chain operations.
- Ensure strict adherence to export/import compliance, ITAR regulations, and quality standards specific to aerospace manufacturing.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives in sourcing, planning, and logistics through lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and value stream mapping.
- Develop supply chain contingency and risk management plans to address global disruptions, geopolitical risks, and supplier capacity constraints.
- Evaluate and implement sustainable sourcing practices aligned with corporate ESG goals.
- Partner with Finance to develop supply chain budgets, cost-saving initiatives, and CAPEX planning.
- Manage and direct the activities of Supplier Quality Representatives to ensure supplier compliance with aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100), support incoming inspections, and drive root cause and corrective action initiatives.
- Represent Supply Chain in cross-functional leadership meetings and key customer or supplier engagements.
- Ability to Travel Globally and be on-site in our corporate Los Angeles region office when not in travel mode.
Job Requirements
Required Skills / Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Aerospace Engineering, Business, or related field;
- Minimum 10 years' of progressive supply chain leadership experience in the aerospace or defense manufacturing sector, with demonstrated success in managing global sourcing and logistics. This includes the following:
- Deep knowledge of aerospace standards and regulations, including AS9100, ITAR, DFARS, and FAA requirements.
- Deep understanding of the manufacturing industry and complexities.
- Experience working with machined parts, complex assemblies, and fabricated metal components used in aerospace platforms.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems, especially Global Shop Solutions and/or Epicor, and Microsoft Office tools; ability to read and interpret CAD drawings and engineering specifications.
- Proven leadership in negotiating long-term agreements, supplier consolidation, cost modeling, and should-cost analysis.
- Experience leading global teams and managing supplier networks across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
- Ability to travel to domestic and international suppliers and manufacturing sites (10-20% travel).
Preferred Skills / Qualifications:
- Master's and/or MBA or APICS/CSCP/CPIM certification
- Experience with global logistics, global Tariffs, FTZ, and other related subject matters
After you apply, you may receive a call or message from our AI Talent Scout about this role or other opportunities that match your skills and preferences. AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic information, and identifying whether there's a mutual fit.
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Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.
Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.