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).
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