Sr. Global Director of Supply Chain and Purchasing

What to Expect

The Senior Director of Supply Chain & Purchasing is responsible for leading the global end-to-end supply chain operations that sustain serial production and aftermarket service for all company products. This role ensures material availability, cost competitiveness, and supply stability through disciplined planning, execution, and supplier performance management.

Operating as a strategic integrator between production, engineering, and finance, the Senior Director owns the global S&OP process, oversees material and capacity planning, manages logistics and distribution networks, and leads all purchasing activities once programs transition from Advanced Purchasing into full production. The role is pivotal to maintaining manufacturing continuity, optimizing working capital, and enabling operational excellence across the company’s global footprint.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic and Operational Leadership

• Define and execute the global supply chain and purchasing strategy post-SOP to ensure continuous production flow and service parts availability.

• Lead the global S&OP process to align demand, supply, and financial targets.

• Develop capacity and inventory strategies supporting stable operations and growth.

• Partner with executive leadership to optimize cost, cash, and delivery performance.

• Oversee data-driven decision making and continuous improvement initiatives across the supply network.

2. Supply Chain Planning & Execution

• Direct demand, supply, and inventory planning for manufacturing sites and global distribution centers (EU, US, Asia).

• Ensure full material readiness and balanced supply plans through integrated planning systems (SAP S/4HANA, Anaplan).

• Manage planning transitions from launch to volume production, including seamless handover of components and suppliers from Advanced Purchasing into series production.

• Optimize inventory levels, logistics flows, and production scheduling to meet customer demand at minimum total cost.

3. Purchasing Operations & Indirect Purchasing

• Lead serial production purchasing activities including price management, cost reduction programs, supplier capacity coordination, and contract compliance.

• Develop and execute commodities management strategy, incorporating market intelligence, price forecasting, dual-sourcing and risk mitigation across key materials (e.g., metals, semiconductors, plastics).

• Maintain strong supplier performance and commercial alignment in collaboration with Quality and Engineering.

• Drive cost control, material availability, and long-term supplier relationships to secure operational reliability.

• Oversee indirect purchasing governance and standardize global P2P processes.

4. Logistics & Distribution

• Manage the global logistics network and distribution centers to ensure timely delivery of production and service materials.

• Optimize transportation modes, warehouse utilization, and 3PL performance to balance cost and service.

• Ensure global trade compliance, customs management, and export control adherence.

5. Team & Organizational Development

• Lead and develop an international team across planning, logistics, and purchasing functions.

• Build capability and succession through coaching, performance management, and process standardization.

• Foster collaboration across global Operations, Engineering, Finance, and Service organizations.

• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and data-driven process improvement.

Skills and Attributes

• Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or Engineering.

• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in supply chain, purchasing, or operations, preferably in automotive or EV manufacturing.

• Proven leadership in global organizations with multi-site operations.

• Expertise in S&OP, ERP/MRP (SAP S/4HANA preferred), and advanced planning tools.

• Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills in multicultural environments.

• Demonstrated success driving cost, delivery, and quality performance in serial production environments.

• Strategic execution and operational excellence

• Cross-functional collaboration

• Data-driven leadership and problem solving

• Global team development

• Continuous improvement mindset

Why Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles, a leader and innovator in electric motorcycles and commercial powertrains, incorporates advanced technology, stunning design and commitment to environmental benefits. The EV space is growing dramatically, with Zero a leader in the two-wheel category and a rising star in powertrain applications to other OEMs electrifying sport and utility vehicles for powersport and industrial applications.

At Zero Motorcycles, you’ll join a passionate, fast-growing global team with a truly international spirit. While our roots in the United States, have branched-out to Europe and stablished in The Netherlands, our team now spans across more than 10 countries, representing over 15 nationalities—and counting! We thrive in a multicultural, multilingual environment where fresh ideas are welcomed, big dreams are encouraged, and success is celebrated together.

Our team is united by a shared mission and a love for what we do. Whether we're collaborating across time zones or catching up in the office, you'll find a group that’s driven, committed, and always ready to share a laugh.

We value connection beyond the work itself. From office lunches and Friday drinks to spontaneous barbecues when the sun’s out, and legendary Xmas parties and team-building days, we believe in having fun while we work hard.

Working with Zero Motorcycles, you’ll also have opportunities to represent us at events and trade shows—locally and internationally—if that’s something you enjoy. And as we continue to grow, so can you. We’re invested in your development and success, and we can’t wait to see where your journey with us will take you.

Additionally

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Inclusive and open-door culture with driven, fun colleagues.
• Work in a dynamic, innovative environment leading the EV revolution.