Role Overview for Chief Procurement Officer with an Aerospace Supplier – Phoenix, AZ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 aerospace and defense supplier in their search for a visionary Chief Procurement Officer (CPO). Based in the vibrant aerospace hub of Phoenix, AZ, this executive leadership role is critical to the company’s continued growth, profitability, and competitive advantage. The CPO will be the principal architect of the global procurement and strategic sourcing strategy, responsible for managing billions in annual spend across a complex network of international suppliers.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the CPO will drive transformational change across the supply chain. This individual will be tasked with building a world-class procurement organization that is not only cost-effective but also resilient, agile, and aligned with the highest standards of quality and compliance demanded by the aerospace industry.
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of navigating the intricate landscape of government regulations, advanced materials sourcing, and complex supplier relationships. You will be responsible for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of materials and services required to meet demanding production schedules while simultaneously identifying and capitalizing on opportunities for innovation and long-term value creation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a market-leading organization and make a tangible impact on its success.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Procurement Officer with an Aerospace Supplier – Phoenix, AZ
Global Procurement Strategy Development
Design, implement, and continuously refine a comprehensive global procurement strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term objectives. This includes category management, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and procurement operations.
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
Lead strategic sourcing initiatives for all direct and indirect materials, including critical aerospace-grade raw materials (e.g., titanium, aluminum alloys, composites), complex machined components, avionics, and MRO services. Develop and execute multi-year category strategies to optimize cost, quality, and delivery performance.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with key global suppliers. Establish a robust SRM program that includes regular performance reviews, scorecards, and joint business planning to drive continuous improvement, innovation, and risk mitigation.
Cost Optimization and Negotiation
Spearhead all major contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms, pricing, and conditions. Develop and implement aggressive cost-reduction programs and value engineering initiatives without compromising quality or supply chain integrity. Champion total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis across the organization.
Supply Chain Risk Mitigation
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the global supply chain. Develop contingency plans for geopolitical instability, natural disasters, supplier financial distress, and other potential disruptions. Enhance supply chain resiliency through strategic dual-sourcing and geographic diversification.
Regulatory and Compliance Adherence
Ensure the procurement function operates in strict compliance with all relevant industry and government regulations, including Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and AS9100 quality standards. Maintain an ethical and transparent sourcing process.
Leadership and Team Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global procurement organization. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and strategic thinking. Set clear performance objectives and provide the resources and guidance necessary for the team to succeed.
Technology and Process Improvement
Champion the use of advanced procurement technologies, including ERP systems (SAP/Oracle), e-sourcing platforms, and data analytics tools to enhance visibility, efficiency, and decision-making. Drive process improvements and best practices across the procure-to-pay (P2P) lifecycle.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key business partner to other executive leaders and departments, including Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Finance. Ensure early procurement involvement in new product development (NPD) to influence design for manufacturability and cost.
Requirements for the Chief Procurement Officer with an Aerospace Supplier – Phoenix, AZ
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., VP of Procurement, Head of Supply Chain) overseeing a global team.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable and extensive experience within the aerospace, defense, or a similarly complex and highly regulated manufacturing industry is mandatory. The candidate must possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of this sector.
Regulatory Knowledge
Expert-level knowledge of government contracting regulations, including FAR, DFARS, and ITAR, is essential. Proven experience managing a supply chain that adheres to these stringent requirements.
Negotiation Skills
A master negotiator with a proven track record of successfully leading high-stakes, complex contract negotiations with global suppliers, resulting in significant cost savings and favorable terms.
Strategic Acumen
Strong strategic and analytical skills with the ability to translate business goals into actionable procurement strategies and initiatives. Experience developing and executing long-range plans.
Leadership Prowess
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a world-class procurement organization. A history of successfully managing and mentoring large, geographically dispersed teams.
Technical Proficiency
Proficiency with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced procurement software solutions. Strong financial acumen and data analysis skills are required.
Communication Skills
Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information and influence stakeholders at all levels, including the Board of Directors.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package, including:
- An attractive base salary and executive bonus program tied to company and individual performance.
- Meaningful long-term incentives, including equity grants and/or stock options.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your family.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- Commitment to professional growth with support for continuing education, industry conferences, and executive coaching.
- The opportunity to work with a dynamic and forward-thinking leadership team in a high-growth industry.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and suitability for the role. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We encourage you to learn more about our expertise in this area by visiting our Supply Chain & Operations Executive Search practice page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, and in accordance with all applicable aerospace and defense industry standards and regulations.
