Strategic Sourcing Manager
Posted 1 Sep 2026
Advertised as “Senior Manager, Strategic Sourcing”
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Expected experience
- 10+ yrs
- Management level
- People management
- Employment
- On-Site
- Contract
- Full-time
No salary listed for this role.
Field of studyBusiness, Engineering, Supply Chain (or related)
Study levelBachelor's
Study levelMaster's
Company Description
WD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy.
As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in.
We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide.
This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today.
We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level.
Join us and let’s shape the future of data.
Job Description
Position Overview
Lead strategic sourcing initiatives for critical capital equipment across Western Digital's global manufacturing operations, driving cost optimization, supply continuity, and technology innovation in alignment with WD's operational excellence and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing Leadership
• Develop and execute comprehensive sourcing strategies for capital equipment portfolios (wafer fabrication, HDD/SSD manufacturing, test equipment) supporting $XXM+ annual spend • Lead cross-functional teams in supplier selection, negotiation, and contract execution for high-value capital investments • Drive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) optimization through strategic supplier partnerships and innovative commercial models • Establish multi-year sourcing roadmaps aligned with WD's technology roadmap and capacity expansion plans
Supplier Relationship & Risk Management
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with Tier-1 OEMs and equipment suppliers in semiconductor and storage industries • Implement robust supplier performance management systems tracking quality, delivery, technical support, and innovation • Develop supply continuity strategies and risk mitigation plans for critical single-source equipment • Lead supplier business reviews and drive continuous improvement initiatives
Commercial Excellence & Value Creation
• Negotiate complex multi-million-dollar capital equipment agreements, including pricing, payment terms, warranty, service, and IP considerations • Structure creative commercial arrangements (consignment, lease-to-own, performance-based contracts) to optimize cash flow • Drive standardization and commonality initiatives to leverage scale and reduce total cost • Identify and capture cost savings opportunities through value engineering, should-cost analysis, and competitive benchmarking