About the Company
VentureOne is building a new venture focused on next-generation robotics, developing intelligent service robots designed to operate safely and efficiently in human environments. The mission of this venture is to improve productivity, safety, and efficiency across high-impact industries by deploying versatile robotic systems.
About the Role
The Head of Supply Chain & Assembly is a critical founding leadership role responsible for establishing and scaling all supply chain, procurement, and assembly operations from the ground up for AD Robotics, a well-funded start-up in Abu Dhabi. You will design the systems, build the team, and execute the strategy that allows us to manufacture precision robotics hardware reliably, cost-effectively, and at pace. This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership position suited to someone who has built supply chains in complex hardware environments ideally in robotics and who thrives in the ambiguity of an early-stage venture.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement the end-to-end supply chain architecture for multi-component robotic systems, from mechanical and electrical to software-integrated assemblies.
- Identify, qualify, and manage a global supplier base covering precision machining, electronics, actuators, sensors, and custom sub-assemblies.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, lead times, and quality agreements with strategic suppliers, including dual/multi-source strategies to mitigate risk.
- Establish and run the in-house assembly facility in Abu Dhabi, including layout, tooling, fixtures, and ESD-safe workstation design.
- Define and document assembly procedures, BOMs, travelers, and quality checkpoints for all robotic platforms.
- Build, lead, and develop an assembly team including technicians, quality inspectors, and logistics coordinators.
- Implement an ERP/MRP system and manage inventory levels, demand forecasting, and inbound/outbound logistics including UAE customs clearance.
- Own quality standards across IQC, FQC, and supplier corrective actions, supporting certification efforts such as CE and SASO.
- Partner with Engineering, Finance, and Program Management to align supply readiness with product roadmaps and COGS targets.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of supply chain, procurement, or operations experience in a hardware-intensive industry (robotics, aerospace, defence, automotive, medtech, or precision electronics).
- At least 3 years in a senior or leadership role with direct team management responsibility.
- Proven track record of setting up or scaling a supply chain from early stage to production volume.
- Deep familiarity with electromechanical assemblies, PCBAs, and multi-tier supplier management.
- Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong commercial acumen including contract negotiation and cost modelling.
- Experience working in or with the GCC/MENA region, or willingness to relocate to Abu Dhabi.
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field.
Preferred Skills
- Master's degree or MBA with operations/supply chain focus.
- APICS CSCP, CPSM, or equivalent professional certification.
- Experience with defense-grade supply chains and ITAR/EAR compliance.
- Familiarity with UAE Free Zone regulations (KIZAD, twofour54, Mubadala zones) and customs processes.
- Exposure to Industry 4.0 tools IoT-enabled inventory, digital twins, predictive procurement.
- Arabic language skills (advantageous, not essential).
