BESS Supply Chain

Karamtara is seeking a senior Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) supply chain professional to join our team and lead all aspects of supply chain, including sourcing, vendor relationship management, and multi-party contract negotiation, aiming to optimise efficiency, reduce costs, ensure timely delivery and build strategic supplier partnerships.

This role will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with KEL’s business objectives, as well as defining and managing key performance indicators (KPI’s) for the supply chain.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and evolve KEL’s supply chain strategy to emphasise long-term partnerships, risk sharing, and mutual value with key suppliers.
• Lead strategic sourcing and qualification of key battery energy storage system (BESS) components, including battery cells, liquid cooling systems, battery management systems, DC blocks, inverters, transformers and other BESS equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to align supply chain strategies with evolving BESS requirements and product development timelines in conjunction with technology roadmap alignment.
• Manage all financial aspects of supply chain operations, including budgeting, cost control, and capital project management, while being aligned to KEL’s budget.
• Negotiate and oversee supply agreements, pricing terms, and performance guarantees with global suppliers in China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.
• Monitor and mitigate risks related to tariffs, import/export regulations, and trade compliance issues specific to India–China relations.
• Implement robust quality assurance programs, including factory audits, FATs (Factory Acceptance Tests), and on-site inspections at Chinese manufacturing facilities.
• Develop strategies, alternative sourcing plans, and multi-supply arrangements to mitigate geopolitical or market disruption risks.
• Collaborate closely with engineering and product development to localise critical supply chain equipment to reduce costs and geopolitical risks.
• Ensure proper organisational growth through effective recruitment and training.
• Travel to China, Southeast Asia, South Korea, and domestically as needed and develop global strategic sourcing initiatives.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, engineering, business administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in supply chain management, with 3+ years in the battery storage industry and direct experience managing global BESS sourcing.
• Extensive experience working with global manufacturers in China and/or South Korea, including contract negotiation and international supplier quality management.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate India–China trade dynamics, including tariffs, documentation, Incoterms, and customs compliance.
• Proven ability to lead and manage teams, build relationships, and motivate employees.
• Strong ability to develop and implement supply chain strategies that align with KEL’s goals.
• Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make market-driven decisions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers while maintaining strong negotiation skills.
• Ability to work eƯectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to manage budgets and understand financial implications of supply chain decisions, while identifying and mitigating risks.
• Strong integrity and adherence to company values and compliance standards.
• Ability to travel overseas to identify, develop and qualify suppliers.