Strategic Sourcing Lead, Ads & Consumer Verticals

Openai·Remote(San Francisco)

Other

WFA Digital Insight

With the global digital economy growing at an unprecedented rate, the demand for skilled strategic sourcing professionals has increased exponentially. In the current remote job market, professionals with expertise in digital skills, particularly in managing complex vendor ecosystems, are in high demand. Openai, a pioneer in AI research and deployment, stands out as a company that is pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, companies like Openai are at the forefront of innovation. Before applying, candidates should be aware that this role requires a unique blend of technical, business, and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. With the right expertise, this role can be a launchpad for a successful career in strategic sourcing.

Job Description

About the Role

The Strategic Sourcing Lead role at Openai is a critical position that requires managing the commercial execution and vendor strategy across the company's expanding footprint. As a key member of the Strategic Sourcing team, you will be responsible for ensuring that Openai acquires the critical external technology, platforms, and services needed to launch new products, operate safely, and monetize globally with speed, resilience, and commercial discipline.

The role is based in San Francisco, with a hybrid work arrangement that requires 3 days per week in the office. As the day-to-day commercial owner for a growing portfolio of vendors, you will report to the Technology Strategic Sourcing Lead (Product Ecosystem & Monetization) and work closely with Product, Engineering, Security, Legal, Growth, and Finance leaders to translate product roadmaps into scalable, defensible vendor strategies.

Openai's mission is to ensure that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. To achieve this, the company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the capabilities of AI systems and safely deploying them to the world through its products. As a Strategic Sourcing Lead, you will play a critical role in enabling the company to launch new capabilities, enter new markets, and scale monetization without accumulating excessive cost, risk, or operational fragility.

What You Will Do

Own sourcing and commercial strategy across Openai's ads technology stack and consumer verticals with a focus on health and finance.
Run high-velocity, high-complexity deals end-to-end: from vendor strategy and RFPs through negotiation, security review, contracting, and go-live.
Partner with Product and Engineering to ensure external vendors can support new product launches without blocking delivery or increasing risk.
Build and manage a multi-vendor ads technology ecosystem, health and personal finance focused tools, to support revenue growth, engagement, and cost optimization.
Structure contracts and pricing models that preserve optionality, support rapid scaling, and minimize long-term lock-in and switching costs.
Coordinate Security, Legal, and Privacy reviews, especially for regulated data flows (health, personal financial) and high-risk vendors.
Own vendor lifecycle management: onboarding, ramp-ups, SLA enforcement, renewals, and re-competitions as Openai's volumes and risk profile evolve.
Act as the control plane between fast-moving product teams and external dependencies, ensuring speed without sacrificing governance, compliance, or economics.
Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the vendor landscape, industry trends, and emerging technologies.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate risks associated with vendor relationships.
Develop and execute strategic plans to optimize vendor performance, reduce costs, and improve overall value proposition.

What We Are Looking For

6+ years of experience leading technology partnerships, sourcing, or commercial negotiations in a high-growth, product-driven environment.
Strong cross-functional leadership and ability to align Product, Engineering, Legal, Security, and Finance around complex, high-stakes decisions.
Comfort operating in regulated or high-risk domains (personal financial, health, payments, identity, data, etc.).
Track record of negotiating commercial, technical, and data-driven agreements with technology vendors.
Strong analytical skills to evaluate pricing models, volume ramps, and vendor risk in the context of revenue and product growth.
Ownership mindset: independently drive deals, resolve blockers, and close outcomes that materially impact product launches and revenue.
Desire to accelerate Openai's mission by enabling better vendor partnerships, faster launches, and more effective execution at scale.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors, stakeholders, and team members.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

Nice to Have

Experience working with AI-powered technologies and platforms.
Knowledge of the digital advertising ecosystem, including ad tech, measurement, and attribution.
Familiarity with health and finance-related regulations, such as HIPAA and PCI-DSS.
Experience with contract management and vendor relationship management tools.
Certification in sourcing, procurement, or a related field.

Benefits and Perks

Competitive salary and equity package.
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) matching and retirement planning.
Flexible PTO and vacation policy.
Remote work stipend and support for home office setup.
Access to cutting-edge technologies and tools.
Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
Recognition and reward programs for outstanding performance.

How to Stand Out

Develop a deep understanding of the vendor landscape: Research and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in the vendor ecosystem.
Highlight your negotiation skills: Showcase your ability to negotiate complex deals, manage vendor relationships, and drive value for the organization.
Build a strong network: Establish relationships with key stakeholders, vendors, and industry experts to stay informed and gain insights into the market.
Create a portfolio of your work: Develop a portfolio that showcases your experience, skills, and accomplishments in strategic sourcing and vendor management.
Prepare for behavioral interviews: Be ready to provide specific examples of your experience, skills, and accomplishments, and practice answering behavioral interview questions.
Research the company culture: Understand Openai's mission, values, and culture, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to and thrive in the organization.
Negotiate your salary: Research the market rate for your role and be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package.

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