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