NPI Supply Chain Expert

Applied Materials•Santa Clara, CA

5d•$141,000 - $193,500

About The Position

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. Applied Materials’ Global Supply Chain organization is offering a career‑growth opportunity for an experienced Senior Supply Chain expert. This role involves structuring and managing high‑complexity NPI sourcing programs within one of Applied’s business units (HI), with a specific focus on new product introduction. In this senior position, you will be responsible for providing leadership and guidance to program management on building the right supply chain for leading‑edge technology programs, leading commercial negotiations for high‑value assemblies, and creating a dedicated supply chain strategy roadmap for the HI business unit. This includes working closely with engineering teams and Applied’s global commodity managers to develop the HI supply chain strategy and to enable the BU’s technology roadmap. The goal of this senior leader is to ensure that speed‑to‑market, cost‑effectiveness, lead time, scalability, and resilience targets are achieved. This position offers a vibrant, collaborative, and challenging environment with visibility to senior management within Applied Materials.

Requirements

Proven expertise in program management, supply chain management, and strong business acumen.
Extensive knowledge of various fabrication commodities and processes.
Deep knowledge of supply chain disciplines including, but not limited to: supply chain strategy development, supplier relationship management, make‑vs‑buy analysis, cost analysis, lead‑time reduction, risk analysis, and capacity analysis.
Extensive operational and manufacturing management experience is a strong advantage.
Demonstrated experience in cost negotiation and driving cost‑reduction plans.
Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross‑functional teams.
Experience working in—and leading teams within—an NPI environment.
Minimum of 15 years of supply chain experience.
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in semiconductor equipment development, fabrication, and supply chain management.

Nice To Haves

An advanced degree and MBA are preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead technical discussions to solve complex problems and associated risks; use a structured approach and advanced analytical thinking to exercise sound judgment and identify innovative solutions.
Mentor team members by sharing knowledge and best practices to elevate the overall functional capabilities of the team.
Collaborate across the matrix organization and influence decisions affecting sourcing strategy, supply chain risk, and material cost.
Develop and implement effective supply chain strategies—from NPI through High Volume—that meet performance requirements and enable the Business Unit’s product strategy.
Lead high‑value, complex negotiations with key suppliers to ensure a reliable and cost‑effective supply of materials and components.
Collaborate with supplier account managers, suppliers, and BU engineering teams to support supplier technology‑roadmap alignment and collaboration.
Establish supply chain solutions for high‑end technology projects, leading the engagement from concept to first customer shipments.
Participate in early PDP gate discussions and lead efforts from a materials‑management perspective.
Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure timely delivery, budget adherence, and quality control throughout the NPI project lifecycle.
Identify and resolve potential risks or complications early, preventing impacts to program targets.
Provide fact‑based containment options and sustainable solution scenarios to executive stakeholders.
Apply broad industry and commercial awareness to drive financial and operational performance across the business unit, department, and sub‑functions.
Demonstrate a strategic mindset focused on achieving goals and objectives, consistently creating a positive impact on the department, business unit, or sub‑function.
Effectively convey complex ideas and concepts (problem statements, “telling the story”), with strong negotiation and influencing skills when engaging senior executives and external stakeholders, while remaining sensitive to audience nuances.
Foster and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, emphasizing long‑term partnerships and collaboration.