Supply Chain & Sourcing Manager

Position Overview

Whisper Aero is pioneering a more connected and efficient future by delivering cleaner, quieter propulsion solutions. Based in Tennessee and founded by industry veterans, the company is seeking a Supply Chain & Sourcing Manager in Crossville, TN to drive the launch of its revolutionary hardware products. You will take ownership of the entire supply chain—from negotiating supplier agreements to managing logistics—while collaborating closely with Engineering, Quality, Sales, Finance, and Leadership to position the organization for long-term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the supply chain and sourcing strategy to support product launch and scale.
• Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with suppliers and manufacturers.
• Negotiate Master Service Agreements (MSAs), pricing, and delivery terms with suppliers.
• Collaborate with engineering to source and qualify components, materials, and tooling.
• Manage budgets with Finance and Project Managers, monitor inventory levels, lead times, and supplier performance.
• Work with Mechanical, Electrical, and Test teams to resolve supply or quality issues.
• Oversee logistics including shipping, customs, and warehousing.
• Maintain accurate procurement documentation and supplier agreements.
• Analyze costs and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.
• Process purchase orders from creation to vendor confirmation and milestone verification.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and AS9100 supplier and quality requirements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for supply chain and sourcing matters.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field, with a minimum of 3 years of experience in supply chain, sourcing, or procurement roles (preferably in hardware or manufacturing).
• Experience with INCOTERMS/3PLs, Big Box/Retailers, Amazon, and LTL.
• Proven track record in managing sourcing for at least three products that have successfully gone to market.
• Strong negotiation skills, especially in managing MSAs, pricing, and vendor agreements.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, budgeting, and procurement tools (e.g., Excel, ERP software).
• Outstanding communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment and adapt to changing needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in bringing a new hardware product to market.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and quality control standards.
• Knowledge of international sourcing and logistics.
• Existing relationships with suppliers in relevant industries (e.g., motors, plastics, batteries).
• Technical background or experience working closely with engineering teams.
• Certification in supply chain or procurement (e.g., APICS, CPSM).

Benefits & Perks

• Top-tier Benefits: 100% paid Medical, dental, and vision for employees; 75% paid for dependents.
• PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off including vacation, sick, and personal days.
• Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation with Tennessee’s attractive no-income-tax benefit.
• End of Year Bonuses for eligible employees.
• Access to daily beverages, snacks, and paid team meals based on office demands.
• 401(k) plan available.
• Relocation Assistance provided.
• Professional Development Stipend to support your growth.