Engineering Lab Operations Manager

The Engineering Lab Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing Engineering Requirements in collaboration with our Integrated Partners, as well as working closely with cross-functional teams in Finance and Operations to ensure efficient forecasting, budgeting, rotation management, build planning, and the successful execution of expansions. This role requires strong collaboration with Engineering IT, Engineering, Finance, Contract Manufacturers, and Data Centers. 

The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in Project Management, Planning, and Supplier Management, with a proven ability to drive results through effective cross-team partnerships and strategic oversight. 

THE ROLE 

• Partners with Engineering IT and manages their quarterly build requirements and reviews with Planning, Supply Base and Integrated Partners. 
• Collaborates with Engineering IT, Finance and Operations on quarterly Engineering Budget plans 
• Ensure Engineering Infrastructure requirements are being executed at the Integrated Partners 
• Leads weekly reviews with Engineering, Supply Base and Integrated Partners on Build and Rotation requirements. 
• Manage and oversee Engineering Lab expansions, ensuring requirements are met and in line with budgets. 
• Manage the relationship with Contract Manufacturer/ Hardware Suppliers and align with our organizations needs and requirements. Establish and maintain robust relationships with CMs, fostering clear communication and alignment on production goals, quality standards and contractual obligations. 
• Evaluate CM performance using predefined metrics, encompassing quality, delivery, and cost efficiencies. Conduct regular performance reviews with CMs and actively drive performance improvement initiatives to enhance overall operational effectiveness. 
• Lead and champion continuous improvement initiatives within the CM supply chain, with a specific focus on driving cost reduction, process optimization, and supply chain resilience. Implement industry best practices, lean methodologies, and process automation to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. Skillfully manage contract negotiations, renewals, and amendments to secure favorable terms and conditions that align with organizational objectives.   
• Monitor and track monthly CM’s fee and manage through Month/Quarter End Close cadences. 

REQUIREMENTS 

• BS/BA in Business Administration, Project Management, Supply Chain Management or related field of Study.  
• 10-15 years of extensive experience in Project Management experience and knowledge in supply chain and production planning processes. 
• Must be extremely detail oriented and possess strong organizational skills, process oriented 
• Start-up attitude: ability to wear multiple hats and work in an unstructured environment 
• Experience in the Storage industry and managing engineering data centers
• Ability to operate and excel in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment with minimal supervision. 
• Demonstrated passion for innovation, bringing fresh ideas to improve operational processes and positively impact other departments. 
• Self-motivated and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment. 
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate and advance multiple project timelines simultaneously. 
• Excellent analytical and decision-making abilities. 
• Outstanding communication skills in a multi-language and multi-cultural environment. 
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally, approximately 10-20% of the time.