Director, Partner and Supplier Management – AI Hardware

At d-Matrix, we are focused on unleashing the potential of generative AI to power the transformation of technology. We are at the forefront of software and hardware innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Our culture is one of respect and collaboration. We value humility and believe in direct communication. Our team is inclusive, and our differing perspectives allow for better solutions. We are seeking individuals passionate about tackling challenges and are driven by execution.  Ready to come find your playground? Together, we can help shape the endless possibilities of AI.  Location: Hybrid, working onsite at our Santa Clara, CA, HQ 3 days per week or remote-US. Title: Director, Partner and Supplier Management – AI Hardware The Role: d-Matrix is seeking an experienced partner and supplier management lead to own the end-to-end manufacturing and component supplier ecosystem for server-class AI hardware platforms, spanning ODMs, contract manufacturers, and strategic component suppliers. This leader is accountable for manufacturing scale, supply assurance, cost, quality, and ramp velocity for high-performance AI systems deployed at data center scale. The role operates at the intersection of hardware engineering, operations, supply chain, and finance, influencing platform architecture decisions to ensure manufacturability, scalability, and long-term supply resilience. This is a hands-on role with the opportunity to build and lead a top-notch team to achieve world-class TTM, cost, quality, and delivery performance. This Role Owns - ODM & CM strategy, selection, governance, and executive relationships - Commodity strategy for critical server components (compute, memory, networking, power, thermal, PCB, interconnect) - Supplier selection, qualification, dual-sourcing, and long-term capacity strategy - Executive negotiations for pricing frameworks, capacity reservations, LTAs, and risk mitigation - Manufacturing readiness, NPI execution, and volume ramp - Supply assurance, yield, quality, and field reliability outcomes - Manufacturing and supplier risk management (capacity, geopolitical, technical) This role sets strategy, outcomes, and supplier direction, collaborating closely with the procurement function, which executes transactions and operational buying within that framework. What you will do: - Define global ODM, CM, and component supplier strategy for AI server platforms - Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing functions to drive flawless execution across EVT/DVT/PVT, pilot builds, and volume ramp - Own capacity planning and long-term supply assurance across system and component layers - Drive BOM cost optimization and margin targets through design influence and supplier strategy - Establish quality, reliability, and continuous improvement programs across partners - Influence product architecture and component choices based on manufacturability and risk - Communicate manufacturing and supply risks clearly to executive leadership What you will bring: - 15+ years in hardware manufacturing, supply chain, or operations - BS/MS in EE/ME/Operations Mgmt; MBA preferred - Senior leadership experience managing ODMs, CMs, and component suppliers - Deep exposure to server-class systems, AI accelerators, or data center hardware - Proven track record of high-volume ramps under supply constraints - Strong executive presence with suppliers and internal stakeholders Equal Opportunity Employment Policy d-Matrix is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and empowered to do their best work. We hire the best talent for our teams, regardless of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, or veteran status. Our focus is on hiring teammates with humble expertise, kindness, dedication and a willingness to embrace challenges and learn together every day. d-Matrix does not accept resumes or candidate submissions from external agencies. We appreciate the interest and effort of recruitment firms, but we kindly request that individual interested in opportunities with d-Matrix apply directly through our official channels. This approach allows us to streamline our hiring processes and maintain a consistent and fair evaluation of al applicants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.