Partner Manager, Aerospace and Defense

Tulip brings modern technology and AI into manufacturing. Manufacturing accounts for almost 20% of the global economy and one in every seven workers on Earth, yet remains among the least digitized. More than a decade ago, we created the category to close that gap: AI-native software that puts cutting-edge tools directly in the hands of the people on the manufacturing front lines. Because we are human-centered and tech-obsessed, we are building a future of work where human ingenuity is amplified with the latest technology.

In January 2026 we became one of Boston's few new AI unicorns, reaching a $1.3B valuation. We're growing double digits in revenue year over year. The world's best manufacturers run on Tulip - turning inventory 10x faster, releasing gene therapies in hours instead of weeks, and training master craftspeople to forge engagement rings 5x more rapidly. Headquartered in Somerville, MA with offices in Germany, Hungary, Singapore, Japan, and Israel, we've been consistently named a World Economic Forum Global Innovator, a Gartner leader, and one of Built In Boston's "Best Places to Work."

We run the way we build: AI-forward, humanistic, and high ownership. We're looking for builders who are energized by complex problems, rapid cycles, and the unique opportunity to see their impact on a global scale.

About You:

You are a SaaS hunter with a proven track record of exceeding quota and deep expertise in the Aerospace & Defense industry. You understand the unique challenges of A&D manufacturing, from stringent compliance requirements to complex supply chain dynamics, and can speak credibly with defense primes, Tier 1 suppliers, and MRO organizations alike.

You're entrepreneurial, comfortable building the playbook while executing it, and thrive in mission-critical environments where precision, traceability, and security are paramount. You can present to C-suite executives at major defense contractors as effectively as you can collaborate with solutions architects on technical integrations. You have a passion for technology and speak fluently about current SaaS, IIoT, cloud, and AI trends, including actively using modern tools plus AI-assisted tools to work more effectively.

What skills do I need?

• 5-8+ years in Channel Sales, Partnerships/Alliances, or Business Development with a strong focus on Aerospace & Defense customers and partners
• Proven track record of quota attainment (100%+) in a channel or alliances sales capacity
• Deep understanding of A&D industry dynamics, including defense primes, Tier 1/2 suppliers, commercial aerospace OEMs, and MRO operations
• Familiarity with A&D compliance frameworks such as ITAR, DFARS, CMMC, AS9100, and NADCAP; understanding of FedRAMP and government cloud requirements preferred
• Experience with MES, ERP, PLM, or IIoT ecosystems in aerospace and defense manufacturing environments
• Experience in SaaS and/or digital transformation initiatives within regulated industries
• Existing relationships with A&D-focused system integrators, consultancies, and technology partners strongly preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to manage multiple stakeholders across complex organizational structures
• Familiarity with Salesforce.com and sales tools (Outreach, ZoomInfo, LinkedIn Sales Navigator)
• U.S. Citizenship required due to nature of work with defense customers; ability to obtain security clearance a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field strongly preferred

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the entire indirect sales process through Tulip's A&D ecosystem partners, including defense-focused system integrators, VAR partners, and strategic alliances
• Develop and execute comprehensive Go-to-Market plans with key partners targeting aerospace manufacturing, defense production, and MRO verticals—including joint value propositions aligned with A&D priorities (traceability, compliance, workforce enablement, quality)
• Support account executives and partners during co-selling motions with defense primes, commercial aerospace OEMs, and their supply chains, from prospecting to close, including accurate pipeline forecasting
• Enable partners to independently represent Tulip across the commercial cycle, ensuring they understand A&D-specific requirements (compliance, security, data sovereignty)
• Identify and recruit new partners to fill geographic, technical, or vertical gaps in the A&D ecosystem—including specialized defense consultancies and cleared technology providers
• Stay current on A&D industry trends, digital transformation initiatives (e.g., DoD modernization programs, Factory of the Future), and competitive landscape
• Leverage and collaborate with internal resources including Sales, Marketing, Sales Engineering, Product, Legal, and Customer teams to navigate complex A&D procurement cycles

Key Collaborators:

• Sales
• Marketing
• Pre-Sales
• Delivery
• Product and Engineering

Working At Tulip

We know even great candidates experience imposter syndrome. Even if you don’t match every requirement, applying gives you the opportunity to be considered. 

We’re building a strong, diverse team that values hard work, families, and personal well-being. Benefits of working with us include:

• Direct impact on product and culture
• Company equity
• Competitive benefits package including Health, Dental, Vision, Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, Life Insurance, AD&D Insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Commuter Benefits, Parental Leave, and 401(K)
• Flexible work schedule and unlimited vacation policy
• Learning & Development program 
• Virtual company events and happy hours
• Fitness subsidies
• An inclusive, dog-friendly office with diverse and inspiring colleagues

We are an equal opportunity employer. At Tulip, we celebrate all. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Help us build an inclusive community that will transform frontline operations.

The compensation information displayed on each job posting reflects the range for new hire pay rates for the position across all US locations. Within the range posted, actual compensation will be determined depending on multiple factors including job-related knowledge & skills, experience, business needs, geographical location, market compensation data, and internal equity. Expected compensation ranges for this role may change over time. The salary range for this position is $120,000 - $160,000 per year, and is eligible for on-target-earnings (OTE). 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Please note that we may use AI-based tools to support parts of our hiring process. All data processing is carried out in compliance with local data protection laws, ensuring all personal candidate information is handled securely and ethically.