Head of Operations

Base pay range

$/yr - $/yr

We are seeking a strategic and execution-focused defense manufacturing executive to assume the role of Head of Operations, over manufacturing and distribution activities supporting multiple U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) customers. This role owns end-to-end operational performance, including product-based manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics, and compliance with government contracting requirements.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in scaled manufacturing environments, strong knowledge of government contracting (FAR/DFARS), and a proven ability to build resilient, compliant supply chains in regulated industries.

• Location:
  
  Bethesda, MD
• Office
  
  Schedule:
  
  Onsite 9am-5pm
• Compensation: $260,000-$280,000 + bonus

• Lead all manufacturing, production planning, distribution, and logistics operations to meet cost, quality, delivery, and compliance objectives
• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business growth and DoD customer requirements
• Establish KPIs and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement across operations
• Oversee product-based manufacturing operations, including capacity planning, scheduling, quality systems, and process optimization
• Ensure timely and compliant distribution of products to government and defense customers
• Own end-to-end supply chain strategy, including sourcing, procurement, supplier management, inventory control, and risk mitigation
• Develop and maintain a resilient supplier base capable of meeting defense, security, and compliance requirements
• Manage long-lead items, obsolescence, and demand variability common in defense programs
• Ensure operational compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and other applicable federal regulations
• Partner with contracts, finance, and program management teams to support contract execution and audits
• Support pricing, cost estimating, and operational inputs for proposals and contract modifications
• Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, program management, finance, and contracts

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field (MBA preferred)
• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing and distribution environments
• Strong background in product-based manufacturing (defense, aerospace, industrial, or similarly regulated industries preferred)
• Deep expertise in supply chain management, including procurement, inventory, and supplier performance
• Demonstrated understanding of government contracting and compliance (FAR/DFARS; ITAR experience a plus)
• Experience supporting multiple DoD customers and contract types (FFP, CPFF, IDIQ, etc.)
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO, or similar quality management systems
• Experience leading operations through periods of growth or increased program complexity

Executive

Full-time

Product Management, Production, and Project Management

Manufacturing and Defense and Space Manufacturing