Senior Strategic Supply Chain Manager (m/f/d)

About the Role As Senior Strategic Supply Chain Manager, you will shape how ARX Robotics sources the components and capabilities behind our autonomous ground systems. You will own category and sourcing strategies across electronic components, mechanical assemblies, and embedded systems, helping our supply base keep pace from early development through series production. Working closely with Engineering, Technical Program Management, and Production, you will turn technical, commercial, and supply chain considerations into clear decisions. Your work will help ARX scale reliably, manage risk, strengthen European supply resilience, and deliver competitive platforms for military and security customers. What You’ll Build Category strategies that balance supply security, cost competitiveness, technical fit, and long-term value. End-to-end RFP and RFQ processes, from supplier identification and technical evaluation to decision preparation, negotiation, and contracting. Total cost of ownership analyses and build, buy, or partner recommendations in close collaboration with Engineering. A resilient supplier network across electronic components, mechanical assemblies, embedded systems, and related technologies. Market intelligence that anticipates capacity constraints, lead-time changes, geopolitical risks, and other shifts in defense-relevant supply chains. Master supply and service agreements that protect ARX while supporting strong, productive supplier relationships. Supplier performance processes with clear KPIs, regular business reviews, and effective escalation of delivery, quality, and commercial issues. Trusted relationships with key technology providers, including Tier 2+ suppliers whose components reach our systems through third-party integrators. Sourcing approaches that support defense, export control, dual-use, localization, and redundancy requirements. What You Bring At least 5 years of experience in strategic procurement or category management, ideally in defense technology, aerospace, robotics, or complex hardware manufacturing. Experience leading sourcing processes from RFQ through contract, including negotiation of commercial and legal terms. The technical confidence to read engineering specifications, work with hardware architects, and translate requirements into sourcing strategies. Familiarity with defense-related procurement requirements, export controls, and dual-use compliance. Strong analytical skills in total cost of ownership modelling, market analysis, and business case development. A structured approach to identifying supply chain risks and building practical mitigation, localization, and redundancy plans. The ability to build trusted relationships with suppliers and collaborate effectively across Engineering, Technical Program Management, Production, and other teams. Clear communication skills in English. German is a strong advantage. Sound judgment, ownership, and the confidence to make well-supported recommendations in a fast-moving environment. Please note: You do not need to meet every single requirement to apply. We welcome motivated candidates who are eager to grow into the role and develop their expertise further. What We Offer Join a mission-driven European defense tech company at a pivotal stage of growth, where you can help shape meaningful technology, take ownership early, and grow with the business! Competitive compensation package including a bonus opportunity 27 vacation days to start, increasing with tenure up to 30 days Employer-supported pension contribution Learning & development support and team events budget Employee discounts and flexible benefits budget via Probonio Hybrid working setup depending on role and team needs Structured salary bands, levelling framework, and bi-annual development conversations Referral bonus program, dog-friendly office, and relocation support where applicable About Us ARX is a dual-use technology company that specializes in developing autonomous unmanned systems and sensors for the European defence sector. Our dual-use unmanned ground systems and sensors assist NATO Armies and civilian first responders in tackling their most challenging problems by providing them with training and information to make better decisions and take effective actions in life-or-death situations. As our team continues to expand rapidly, we are seeking motivated candidates who are excited to work in a highly energetic, creative, and innovative team dedicated to developing autonomous systems for challenging environments. We operate in a dynamic sector where collaboration, sharing innovative ideas, and developing novel problem-solving strategies are ingrained in our work culture. If you are passionate about overcoming challenges that have a real impact on the security of our democracies, apply here to join ARX and help shape the future of dual-use technology! ARX is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. You can find ARX Robotics Applicant Privacy Policy here .