Given the hardware budget squeeze I didn't expect "management" to understand the real value of a good consultant/mentor. Damn shame is about all you can say to that.

Good luck finding much useful guidance on SQL Server and NUMA. There is a dearth of good information out there, especially deep/technical guidance, although it is certainly better than it used to be. IIRC there was a pretty good session at one of the SQL Bits conferences that you might be able to download.