Partner Cost Manager

As a Partner Cost Management Specialist, you will be integral to optimizing Cisco's manufacturing cost strategies. You will drive or play a significant role in the following activities:

Develop and Execute Cost Strategies:

• Formulate and implement comprehensive cost strategies for outsourced manufacturing services, focusing on both Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) models.
• Work closely with internal teams to align cost strategies with overall business objectives, ensuring they contribute positively to Cisco's competitiveness in the market.

Cost Negotiation Strategy and Execution:

• Develop negotiation strategies that achieve or exceed fiscal targets, ensuring cost efficiencies without compromising quality.
• Lead negotiations with manufacturing partners to secure favorable terms and conditions that support Cisco's financial goals.

Fiscal Planning and Goal Setting:

• Participate in fiscal planning on a quarterly and annual basis, setting realistic and achievable goals.
• Analyze financial data to forecast spending and identify opportunities for cost savings.

Monitor and Manage Spend:

• Oversee spending with manufacturing partners across various categories, including standard costs, New Manufacturing Systems (NMS), New Manufacturing Activities (NMA), and New Product Introduction (NPI).
• Ensure that all expenditures are within budget and aligned with Cisco's financial policies.

Assess Manufacturing Partner Financial Health:

• Conduct regular assessments of manufacturing partners' financial stability to mitigate risks and ensure continuity of supply.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on financial assessments to senior management.

Champion Cost-Reduction Initiatives:

• Lead Value Engineering (VE) initiatives aimed at reducing transformation costs and improving product margins.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work in a fast-paced environment with high visibility across Cisco's supply chain and other functions.
• Collaborate effectively with stakeholders, balancing Cisco's optimization goals with the needs of manufacturing partners to achieve mutual success.

• Proven experience in supply chain management, cost strategy development, and financial planning.
• Strong negotiation skills with a track record of achieving cost efficiencies.
• Ability to analyze financial data and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in a fast-paced, high-visibility role is preferred.