At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of innovative supply chain strategies for cutting-edge robotics.
- Company: Join Walden Robotics, a pioneer in humanoid robot technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, bonuses, equity, flexible PTO, and daily lunches.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team with growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the robotics industry while shaping the future of supply chains.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in procurement or supply chain with a focus on hardware or robotics.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a senior, strategic, and hands-on supply chain leader to architect and operationalize the procurement and supply chain foundation powering our next-generation general-purpose humanoid robots. This is a high-impact builder role for someone who can establish structure while executing in real time. As we transition from advanced development into scaled production, supply chain excellence becomes a critical enabler of cost, reliability, and speed. You will design sourcing strategy, negotiate and manage key supplier relationships, implement systems and processes, and personally ensure material readiness for pilot builds and production ramps.
Reporting into Business Operations, this role operates at the intersection of Engineering, Finance, and Manufacturing, translating product ambition into supply certainty and margin discipline.
Core Responsibilities:- Design and implement Walden’s end-to-end procurement and supply chain strategy aligned with product roadmap and production scaling plans
- Establish sourcing models (single vs. dual sourcing, global vs. regional, make vs. buy)
- Build structured risk mitigation frameworks for long-lead, single-source, and geopolitical exposure
- Develop cost roadmaps aligned with margin and capital efficiency goals
- Identify, evaluate, onboard, and manage global suppliers across mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical components
- Lead RFQs, cost modeling, contract negotiation, and long-term supplier agreements
- Build durable supplier partnerships aligned with production scaling needs
- Ensure material readiness for prototype builds, pilot production, and scale-up
- Implement demand forecasting and supply planning processes
- Define and manage inventory strategy (safety stock, reorder policies, working capital optimization)
- Oversee domestic and international logistics, freight optimization, and customs coordination in collaboration with Robot Operations teams
- Build the roadmap for future supply chain team growth as the company scales
- Partner with Engineering on DFM/DFA and cost-down initiatives
- 8+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain within hardware, robotics, advanced manufacturing, or industrial systems
- Demonstrated experience building or scaling supply chain functions in early or growth-stage environments
- Proven track record negotiating complex supplier agreements and managing global vendors
- Strong commercial acumen and cost modeling capability, including BOM and landed cost analysis
- Experience working with contract manufacturers and international suppliers
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and structured procurement workflows
- Experience supporting complex electromechanical or robotics products
- Direct experience scaling from prototype to low-volume production to higher-volume manufacturing
- Background in cost engineering or value analysis/value engineering (VA/VE)
- Experience implementing dual-sourcing or supply chain risk mitigation programs
- Prior experience building procurement systems from first principles
- Advanced degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, or related field
Walden Robotics offers a competitive total compensation program, including salary, annual cash bonus, company equity, company-subsidized insurance programs, 401(k) with company match, flexible PTO, daily lunch, and other benefits. The pay ranges noted on our posts are for salary only.
Walden Robotics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.
If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to hello@waldenrobotics.com.
Walden Robotics participates in E-Verify. If you receive an offer of employment from Walden, you will need to go through the E-Verify process of digital verification of your employment authorization documents as provided on the Form I-9. Participation in E-Verify does not limit your right to work and verification will only be completed after you become.
Lead Procurement & Supply Chain Specialist in Cambridge employer: Walden Robotics
Walden Robotics is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. As a Lead Procurement & Supply Chain Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of humanoid robotics while enjoying competitive compensation, flexible PTO, and opportunities for professional growth. Our inclusive culture fosters creativity and teamwork, ensuring that every employee can contribute meaningfully to our mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Procurement & Supply Chain Specialist in Cambridge
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Walden Robotics.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Procurement & Supply Chain Specialist in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Walden Robotics:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Walden Robotics. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Walden Robotics.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walden Robotics
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Walden Robotics!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Walden Robotics. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Walden Robotics's culture.
