Partner Manager, Aerospace and Defense

Tulip Interfaces

9h • $120,000 - $160,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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

Nice To Haves

• understanding of FedRAMP and government cloud requirements
• Existing relationships with A&D-focused system integrators, consultancies, and technology partners
• ability to obtain security clearance a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field strongly preferred

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

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior