Global Supply Chain Manager (GSM)

📋 Description

• • Lyte, Inc. is at the forefront of Physical AI, developing sophisticated perception systems for complex environments. We integrate custom silicon, advanced sensors, and intelligent software into a unified platform designed to revolutionize robotics, mobility, and next-generation automation. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, with a growing global footprint, Lyte is seeking a highly driven and detail-oriented Global Supply Chain Manager (GSM) to architect and scale our global supply chain operations within a dynamic, fast-paced hardware startup environment.
• • This pivotal role demands an individual capable of both strategic vision and hands-on execution. You will be instrumental in designing the foundational architecture of our supply chain while simultaneously ensuring the precision and efficiency of day-to-day operations. As the primary owner of the end-to-end supply chain for one or more of our core products, you will serve as the critical connective tissue, seamlessly linking engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and key business stakeholders.
• • Success in this position hinges on a robust blend of strong operational judgment, a profound understanding of manufacturing and sourcing dynamics, disciplined execution, and the foresight to anticipate and proactively mitigate risks in an ever-evolving landscape. You will be empowered to shape the future of Lyte's supply chain, directly impacting our ability to deliver groundbreaking AI hardware to the market.
• • Key Responsibilities and Impact:
• • Own and drive the end-to-end supply chain strategy and execution, encompassing the entire product lifecycle from early-stage supplier selection and qualification through production ramp and ongoing operational excellence.
• • Spearhead the development of a comprehensive global supply chain from its inception. This includes defining and implementing a robust sourcing strategy, establishing rigorous supplier qualification processes, forging strategic partnerships with contract manufacturers (CMs), optimizing logistics networks, and designing effective inventory models to balance availability and cost.
• • Cultivate an in-depth understanding of our products, including detailed Bill of Materials (BOMs), critical cost drivers, lead times for various components and processes, and manufacturing constraints. This knowledge will be foundational for informed decision-making and strategic planning.
• • Lead and foster seamless cross-functional collaboration with key departments such as Engineering, Operations, Quality Assurance, Finance, and Product Management. Your role will ensure that product designs are inherently supply-chain ready, minimizing potential roadblocks and maximizing manufacturability.
• • Proactively identify, vet, onboard, and meticulously manage a global network of suppliers and contract manufacturers. This involves establishing strong working relationships, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring alignment with Lyte's quality and performance standards.
• • Develop, implement, and maintain clear, actionable supply chain plans. These plans will cover critical areas including demand forecasting, capacity planning across all tiers of the supply chain, material readiness to support production schedules, and precise production scheduling to meet market demands.
• • Take ownership of supplier performance management, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and actively monitoring metrics related to cost, quality, delivery timelines, and overall risk. Implement performance improvement initiatives as needed.
• • Proactively identify and assess potential risks across the supply chain, including those related to supply continuity, cost fluctuations, quality deviations, and scalability challenges. Develop and drive robust mitigation plans to safeguard operations.
• • Provide critical support for cost modeling, budgeting processes, and margin analysis. Your deep understanding of supply chain trade-offs will be essential in optimizing profitability and financial performance.
• • Champion continuous improvement initiatives across all facets of the supply chain, including sourcing strategies, procurement processes, logistics operations, and inventory management, driving efficiency and cost savings.
• • Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and data-driven supply chain updates and recommendations to senior leadership, effectively communicating key risks, operational constraints, and strategic opportunities.