Global Supply Chain Director - Palo Alto - 1X Technologies

Description

Targeted start date: Immediately. Relocation provided.

Since its founding in 2015, 1X has been at the forefront of developing advanced humanoid robots designed for household use. Our mission is to create an abundant supply of labor via safe, intelligent humanoids.
We strive for excellence in all we do, solving some of the hardest problems in robotics with the world's most talented individuals. Every part of our robots is designed and produced in-house—from motor coils to AI—reflecting our vertically integrated approach. At 1X, you'll own real projects, be recognized for your achievements, and rewarded based on merit.
We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.

As we scale from research and development to full-scale manufacturing, we are looking for an experienced and strategic Global Supply Chain Director to lead and optimize our supply chain operations while supporting aggressive R&D and engineering development. This role will be instrumental in ensuring seamless sourcing, procurement, and logistics while navigating the complexities of geopolitical and economic changes that impact manufacturing and global supply chains. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of global sourcing strategies, supply chain risk management, and supplier engagement while working closely with commodity experts and engineering teams to drive innovation and scalability.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Supply Chain Leadership

1. Develop and implement a comprehensive global supply chain strategy that aligns with 1X Technologies' business growth and product innovation goals.
2. Lead commodity experts to develop best-in-class procurement and sourcing strategies that support both short-term manufacturing needs and long-term supply chain resilience.
3. Partner with engineering and R&D teams to support aggressive product development, ensuring rapid iteration and scalability while maintaining cost and quality targets.
4. Establish and manage strategic supplier relationships, negotiating contracts that drive cost efficiency, quality, and supply chain agility.
5. Ensure best-in-class sourcing practices for critical components, optimizing vendor partnerships to support rapid development and commercialization.
6. Work closely with commodity experts to maintain a diversified, reliable, and cost-effective supply base.

Managing Geopolitical & Economic Risks

1. Monitor and analyze geopolitical and economic changes that may impact manufacturing, sourcing, and logistics, developing proactive strategies to mitigate risks.
2. Build regionalized supply chain strategies to minimize dependency on single-source suppliers and optimize cost, lead times, and trade compliance.
3. Stay ahead of tariffs, trade policies, and regulations, ensuring that 1X Technologies is positioned for long-term supply chain stability and resilience.

Logistics, Inventory, and Operations

1. Oversee global logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution, to ensure timely and cost-effective product deliveries.
2. Implement advanced inventory management systems to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize supply chain disruptions.
3. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, and support rapid scaling.

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

1. Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team, fostering collaboration and innovation.
2. Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and product teams to align supply chain operations with product development cycles.
3. Develop KPIs and performance metrics to track supply chain efficiency, supplier performance, and overall operational effectiveness.

Requirements

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
2. 10+ years of experience in global supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role in technology, robotics, or manufacturing industries.
3. Proven experience in commodity management, supplier negotiations, and risk mitigation strategies.
4. Strong understanding of geopolitical and economic factors affecting global supply chains, including trade policies and regional sourcing strategies.
5. Experience working with engineering and R&D teams to support fast-paced development cycles and product innovation.
6. Familiarity with technical specifications and engineering development workflows.
7. Ability to interpret technical documentation and assist engineers in identifying suitable components or materials.
8. Expertise in supply chain analytics, ERP systems, and logistics optimization tools.
9. Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills with a track record of building high-performing teams.

Location Policy

We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.

Typical Interview Process

1. Introductions - interviews to learn more about you and talk about 1X and the role
2. Interview with a member of the Talent Acquisition team
3. Hiring manager / senior team member / technical interview
4. Team interviews - technical interviews and deep-dives with team members. May include a take home challenge, presentation or problem-solving exercise
5. Technical deep-dive conversation with a team member
6. Onsite interviews with team members
7. Final Interview Stage - we move you to our final round
8. Expectation management with the hiring manager
9. We will conduct reference checks
10. Job offer conversation
11. Depending on the role and your background, additional interviews may be added.

You are also welcome to request additional conversations with anyone you would like to meet, but didn't get to meet during the interview process.

These are the ideas that express our team's culture and how we work:

Be Nice

Collaboration is our driving force. Our team creates an open, trusting environment where everyone can be their most creative.

Stay Smart

A world-changing team needs the brightest minds in every discipline. This is where people come to work, learn, and grow to their full potential.

Make History

Everything we do gets us closer to one ambitious vision: Creating an Abundant Supply of Labor using Safe, Intelligent Humanoids. We believe what we build today will impact generations.

Not sure if this is you?
Studies have shown that women are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet all qualifications. If you're excited about this role, but you're not sure if you qualify, apply anyway You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

1X is an inclusive and equal-opportunity employer that values diversity. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected class. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please don't hesitate to let us know during the interview process. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.

We're excited to have you on board