Director of Purchasing

Luminar is a global automotive technology company ushering in a new era of vehicle safety and autonomy. For the past decade, Luminar has built an advanced hardware and software/AI platform to enable its more than 50 industry partners, including the majority of global automotive OEMs. From consumer vehicle programs with Volvo Cars and Mercedes-Benz to technology partnerships including NVIDIA and Mobileye, Luminar is poised to be the first automotive technology company to enable next-generation safety and autonomous capabilities for global production vehicles. For more information, please visit www.luminartech.com. Team OverviewLuminar Technologies is seeking an experienced Director of Purchasing to lead our global sourcing strategy for cutting-edge LiDAR systems. This role requires deep expertise in complex supply chain management across multiple disciplines including contract manufacturing, precision mechanical components, advanced optical systems, and electronic assemblies. The successful candidate will drive cost optimization, quality assurance, and supply chain resilience while managing a distributed sourcing team including third-party resources in China. Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing Supplier ManagementDevelop and execute comprehensive sourcing strategies for LiDAR system components including mechanical parts, optical components, PCBAs, and electronic assembliesIdentify, evaluate, and onboard contract manufacturing partners capable of meeting Luminar's quality, volume, and cost requirementsBuild and maintain strategic supplier relationships across global markets, with particular focus on Asia-Pacific suppliersLead supplier audits, capability assessments, and performance reviews to ensure alignment with company standardsNegotiate complex contracts, pricing agreements, and service level agreements with key suppliersTeam Leadership ManagementManage and coordinate with third-party sourcing team located in China, ensuring alignment with company objectives and processesProvide strategic direction and performance management for remote team membersEstablish clear communication protocols and reporting structures across time zonesFoster collaboration between internal teams and external sourcing partnersDevelop local sourcing capabilities and market intelligence in key manufacturing regionsSupply Chain OptimizationDrive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining quality and delivery performance standardsImplement risk mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions and single-source dependenciesEstablish and monitor key performance indicators for supplier performance, cost savings, and delivery metricsCollaborate with engineering teams to optimize designs for manufacturability and cost efficiencySupport new product introduction (NPI) processes through early supplier engagement and sourcing planningCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Finance teams to align sourcing decisions with business objectivesSupport product development teams with component selection, supplier recommendations, and cost modelingWork closely with Quality Assurance to establish supplier quality requirements and inspection protocolsCollaborate with Legal and Compliance teams on contract negotiations and regulatory requirementsMinimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related fieldMinimum 10 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing and procurementLeadership CommunicationDemonstrated experience managing remote and international teamsStrong negotiation skills with proven track record of cost savings and contract optimizationExcellent communication skills with ability to influence stakeholders at all levelsCultural sensitivity and experience working across diverse international marketsFluency in English required; Mandarin Chinese proficiency preferredCore CompetenciesStrategic thinking with ability to balance short-term needs and long-term objectivesStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesRisk management and contingency planning expertiseProject management skills with ability to handle multiple complex initiativesResults-oriented mindset with focus on continuous improvementTechnical SkillsDeep understanding of contract manufacturing processes and supplier qualificationKnowledge of electronic components, PCBAs, mechanical assemblies, and optical systemsFamiliarity with automotive industry standards and requirements (preferred)Proficiency in ERP systems, sourcing tools, and data analysis platformsUnderstanding of international trade regulations, customs, and logisticsProven experience managing suppliers in Asia, particularly ChinaExperience with optical components, precision mechanics, or LiDAR/sensor technologies preferredPreferred QualificationsMaster's degree preferred (MBA, MS in Supply Chain Management, or equivalent)Experience in autonomous vehicle, robotics, or advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) industriesKnowledge of LiDAR technology, laser systems, or photonicsCertified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or similar professional certificationExperience with lean manufacturing principles and value engineeringLuminar is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. We will make a reasonable accommodation for any qualified applicant with a disability, provided that the individual is otherwise qualified to safely perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation and that the accommodation would not impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. Please let us know if you believe you require reasonable accommodation, or if you would like assistance to complete an application or to participate in an interview at the company. At Luminar, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. This role pays a base between $150,000.00 and $209,000.00* per year. Within this range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. You will also be eligible to receive other benefits including: equity in the form of restricted stock unit awards, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, 401k plan, life and disability benefits, flexible time off, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement for formal education related to advancing your career at Luminar. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire and schedule type.*Note that the pay range listed for this position is a good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible base compensation at the time of posting. Originally posted on Himalayas Apply To this Job