Solar Supply Chain Officer at SunFi Technology Limited

About the Role

• The Solar Supply Chain Officer will be responsible for managing the end-to-end supply chain operations within the solar energy sector, with a focus on strategic negotiations with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) partners and overseeing quality control.
• The role involves supplier relationship management, procurement, logistics coordination, and ensuring compliance with quality standards.
• The ideal candidate will possess deep industry knowledge, excellent negotiation skills, and a commitment to ensuring optimal product quality.
• The role will be office-based with occasional travel to supplier sites and manufacturing facilities.
• There’s a required flexibility to travel internationally as required to meet with OEM partners and oversee quality control operations as well.

Responsibilities

Market Analysis and OEM Identification:

• Conduct in-depth research to identify the most popular solar component brands (panels, inverters, batteries, etc.) used by various solar energy providers.
• Build and maintain a database of solar energy providers, highlighting the brands and OEMs they use.
• Analyze industry trends, quality, cost-effectiveness, and performance of solar components to recommend the best OEMs for strategic partnerships.
• Prepare reports and presentations summarizing research findings and providing insights on which OEMs offer the most value.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as supplier performance, pricing / cost savings, lead times, and quality metrics.
• Provide regular reports on supply chain performance, identifying areas for improvement and cost-saving opportunities.

Supplier Management & Strategic Negotiations:

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with OEM partners and key suppliers in the solar energy sector.
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing agreements to secure favorable deals while ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Lead supplier performance evaluations and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Monitor and mitigate supply chain risks related to price volatility, supply disruptions, and quality issues.
• Procurement of Solar PV Components:
• Lead the procurement process for solar components, including negotiation with OEMs and vendors to secure favorable pricing and terms.
• Manage relationships with OEMs to ensure a high-quality, cost-efficient, and reliable supply of solar components.
• Collaborate with engineering, project management, and finance teams to understand project requirements and ensure timely procurement of necessary components.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with vendors to prevent supply shortages and overstocking.
• Conduct market research to identify alternative suppliers and new technologies in the solar industry.
• Establish procurement strategies aligned with long-term business goals, sustainability, and cost reduction targets.

Quality Control & Compliance:

• Implement quality control protocols to ensure that all solar components and materials meet industry standards and specifications.
• Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to conduct regular inspections and audits of OEM and supplier facilities.
• Address any non-conformance issues, leading root cause analysis, and corrective action implementation.
• Ensure that all products comply with international standards and certifications (e.g., IEC, UL, TUV).

Logistics and Supply Chain Control:

• Oversee the logistics and transportation of solar components from OEMs to project sites or warehouses.
• Coordinate with logistics providers to ensure timely delivery of materials, minimizing delays and optimizing transportation costs.
• Track shipments and maintain accurate records of delivery schedules and compliance with local regulations.
• Address any logistics-related issues, including delays, damaged goods, or discrepancies in orders, to ensure smooth operations.
• Manage inventory levels, ensuring the availability of necessary materials while minimizing excess stock and obsolescence.
• Work closely with logistics providers and internal teams to resolve supply chain bottlenecks.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate with engineering, product development, and sales teams to ensure alignment on product specifications and project timelines.
• Coordinate with legal and finance teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, contract obligations, and budget constraints.

Soft and Technical Skills:

• Experience in procurement, supply chain management, or logistics, ideally within the solar or renewable energy industry.
• Proven experience in negotiating contracts and building long-term relationships with OEMs and suppliers.
• Strong understanding of solar PV systems, components, and manufacturers.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with proficiency in data analysis and research tools.
• Experience with logistics coordination, including knowledge of international shipping, customs, and transportation.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with teams such as engineering, finance, and project management.
• Proficiency in procurement software, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint), and supply chain management tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Renewable Energy, Engineering, or related fields.
• 5+ years of experience in supply chain management, procurement, or logistics, preferably within the solar or renewable energy industry.
• Familiarity with key solar component brands and OEMs.
• Knowledge of solar project development and installation processes.
• Experience managing large-scale procurement and logistics operations.
• Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
• Certification in supply chain management (e.g., APICS, ISM).
• Experience working with international suppliers and navigating global trade regulations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Family/Personal Healthcare
• Flexible Access to Salary and Employee Support Facilities
• Employee Solar Power Program
• Life and Career Coaching Masterclass
• Flexible Access to over 11,000 learning resources and opportunities
• Amazing colleagues and a great work culture
• Team Bonding and a chance to build a world-class Clean Energy FinTech!