Cost Reduction Lead - Software Architecture & SaaS

at  Polestar

THE OPPORTUNITY

We’re currently looking for a Cost Reduction Lead. Someone to join our Software Architecture & SaaS team in order to optimise the cost structure of Polestar’s current and future vehicle software architecture as well as current and future SaaS within Software domain. This role will focus on reducing both commercial and bill of material (BoM) costs while upholding or enhancing the quality and performance of our vehicles and services
This position can be located in either Coventry, UK or Gothenburg, Sweden.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

In order to succeed in this role, and at Polestar in general, there are a few characteristics you’ll need to have. Tenacity. Flexibility. Curiosity. The ability to take the initiative, to meet deadlines and requirements, and to abandon ideas when they’re not feasible.
We are seeking someone with a proven ability to interpret complex data and identify cost-saving opportunities through strong analytical skills. The ideal candidate will possess excellent negotiation skills and extensive experience in supplier management, enabling effective collaboration and value-driven partnerships.
Success in this role requires the ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team environment, having strong communication and presentation skills to convey complex information clearly is also important.

In addition you’ll need the following qualifications/experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• Proven experience in cost reduction, cost analysis, or a related role within the automotive or manufacturing industry
• Proven track-record of automotive electrical system and architecture leading roles.
• Comfortable with common concepts within automotive embedded development; ISO 21434, ISO 26262, SOTIF…
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and other cost reduction methodologies
• Proficiency in relevant software tools (e.g., MS Office Suite, JIRA, Confluence)

In this role you will collaborate cross-functionally and cross-platform to identify cost-saving opportunities and implement cost reduction strategies within different areas of the Software domain and Polestar portfolio. The cost reduction lead will also collaborate with a matched pair in partner organisations to find shared opportunities that can be realised across different brands within the wider group.
The successful candidate shall lead in monitoring, reporting and taking action to ensure progress on projects within Software domain areas through internal meetings and matched pair partner meetings.
This role shall involve overall portfolio management, detailed risk assessments of initiatives and leading escalations to the Product Cost Management (PCM) leadership team if deviations or support is needed. The successful candidate shall ensure quality and transparency through technical documentation in the PCM systems and tools according to the formal PCM process in Polestar.
SW core engineers shall support the successful candidate with technical assessments, TARR (time adjusted rate of return) calculations and supporting the maturity of identified cost potentials.
See below for a more thorough breakdown of the various tasks and areas you’ll be responsible for:

Cost Analysis and Reduction

• Conduct thorough analyses of current vehicle & SaaS costs, identifying opportunities for cost reduction in both commercial and BOM aspects
• Develop, implement, and oversee cost-saving initiatives without compromising vehicle and services quality and performance,

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering, procurement, finance, and manufacturing teams to identify and execute cost reduction projects for Polestar
• Participate in design, business and engineering reviews to ensure cost efficiency is considered in the design and development of new vehicle models across functional domains
• Coordinate with the supply chain team to evaluate and select cost-effective materials and components for new vehicles and model year changes

Supplier and Partner Management

• Evaluation of existing and potential suppliers for cost-saving opportunities
• Establish strong relationships with the shared platform providers to facilitate effective negotiation and collaboration
• Monitor supplier performance and address any cost-related issues promptly
• Lead and manage CBSRs (cross brand service requests) where appropriate

Continuous Improvement

• Implement and promote a culture of continuous improvement within the organization
• Utilise lean principles and other cost reduction methodologies to drive efficiency in the function area

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Conduct detailed cost analysis and prepare comprehensive reports on cost reduction activities and outcomes
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cost savings and present findings to senior management
• Provide data-driven recommendations for further cost optimization