VP, Supplier Ecosystem Readiness, GO-SEMI

• Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.
• This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.
• Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:

With over $124 billion in new investments announced since 2022, New York State is now home to the nation’s fastest-growing semiconductor manufacturing hub. The Vice President of Supplier Ecosystem Readiness will serve as the primary architect for connecting small, mid-sized, and historically underserved businesses to semiconductor-related construction and supply chain contracts. Situated at the forefront of New York State’s historic semiconductor growth, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity for an economic development professional to ensure this moment translates to real opportunities for New Yorkers.

This role will oversee a Syracuse-based center and a strategic portfolio of initiatives focused on supplier readiness, service delivery, and market integration. The successful candidate will ensure that businesses across New York State can successfully transition from initial interest to contract-ready participation in major projects, including Micron’s unprecedented $100 billion investment in Central New York. By bridging the gap between small businesses and global supply chains, this role serves as a primary vehicle within state government for connecting local entrepreneurs to long-term, generational wealth-building opportunities.

WORK PERFORMED:

The Vice President of Supplier Ecosystem Readiness will lead the creation of a first-of-its-kind center and virtual platform to identify, prepare, and connect New York businesses to real contracting opportunities across the semiconductor supply chain and construction ecosystem. This position is about building a pipeline of contract-ready firms and converting opportunities into economic outcomes. The Vice President is an ecosystem builder who will design, launch, and lead the first-of-its-kind business readiness center, an agile engine designed to fast-track local businesses into the semiconductor supply chain, including fab construction.

This position will work directly with industry leaders, prime contractors, and local enterprises to identify procurement gaps, remove barriers to entry, and translate massive economic investments into signed contracts for New York businesses—with a passionate focus on uplifting economically disadvantaged and underrepresented enterprises.

Key Responsibilities

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education Level Required: Bachelor's degree in business, Economic Development, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field.

Relevant Experience Required: Experience: 7+ years of experience in economic development, supply chain, small business growth, or related fields, preferably with exposure to advanced manufacturing, construction, or semiconductor ecosystems. Experience working with or alongside procurement, contracting, or supplier ecosystems. Exposure in advanced manufacturing, construction, or semiconductor ecosystems is highly preferred. Significant leadership experience with proven ability to build partnerships, lead teams, manage cross-functional initiatives, and drive measurable outcomes.

Knowledge Required: Experience launching or scaling programs tied to real economic or commercial outcomes. An entrepreneur with proven track record of taking complex, high-stakes initiatives from white-paper concepts to operational success. Ability to operate effectively at the intersection of public sector, industry, and small. Strong relationship management skills with the ability to translate engagement into action and outcomes. Data-driven approach, with experience using CRM or pipeline tools to track progress and performance. Ability to operate in ambiguity and bring structure, urgency, and accountability. Ability to engage effectively with both technical industry stakeholders and small business operators. Demonstrated ability to identify barriers and then engineer ways around them. Proven track record of converting complex industrial opportunities into tangible commercial outcomes and contracts secured by New York businesses. Additional Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with public programs such as MWBE, SBA, and SSBCI. Experience supporting underrepresented businesses in accessing contracting opportunities. Fluency in Spanish or another language commonly spoken in local business communities.