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Supply Chain & Sourcing Manager

Crossville, Tennessee, United States

Our Company

Whisper Aero is pioneering a more compelling and connected future by delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient propulsion solutions. Today's open rotor propulsion systems are challenged by safety, noise, and performance limitations at all scales. Whisper's breakthrough technologies allow aircraft to fly anywhere at any time without disturbing communities, at greater speeds, and with incredible improvements in efficiency and cost. Their innovations also enable a new generation of air moving products that can blend into the soundscapes of daily life. Whisper was founded by industry veterans, Mark Moore and Ian Villa, and continues to innovate a future that’s as considerate as it is compelling with its world-class team in Tennessee. 

About the Role

Whisper Aero is seeking a Supply Chain & Sourcing Manager in Crossville, TN to help bring our first products to market. As part of a lean, cross-functional team, you’ll take ownership of all things supply chain and sourcing, from negotiating supplier agreements to ensuring we have the right materials at the right time. By maintaining a strategic focus on sourcing, you’ll ensure that the organization not only meets its immediate procurement needs but also positions itself for long-term success in the marketplace. This is a unique opportunity to shape the supply chain strategy for a product that is poised to disrupt the market. You’ll work closely with Engineering, Quality, Sales, Finance and Leadership, gaining exposure to all aspects of launching a new hardware product while playing a critical role in its success.

What You’ll Do

  • 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.
  • Work with engineering to source and qualify components, materials, and tooling.
  • Manage and work with Finance and Project Managers on the sourcing budget for each product or project.
  • Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and supplier performance to ensure timely delivery.
  • Collaborate with the Mechanical, Electrical, and Test teams to address any supply or quality issues.
  • Manage logistics, including shipping, customs, and warehousing.
  • Maintain accurate procurement documentation and supplier agreements.
  • Analyze costs and develop strategies to reduce expenses without compromising quality.
  • Analyze spend data to identify cost-saving opportunities and develop reports for management review.
  • Process purchase orders, from order creation to vendor confirmation and milestone verification to confirming receipt and submitting to Finance for payment.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures including AS9100 supplier and quality requirements related to sourcing and procurement.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for supply chain and sourcing matters across the team.

Basic Qualifications

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

Bonus Qualifications

  • Experience 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).

#LI-DC1

Benefits: 

  • 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 for vacation, sick, and personal days
  • Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee’s no-income-tax life
  • End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
  • We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
  • 401(k) 
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Professional Development Stipend

Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

 

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