Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management

The Contracts & Asset Management Group is responsible for APL’s prime contracting, estimating/pricing, asset management, NDA/Non-monetary agreement management, contract business systems, and contract closeout. Our vision is to be a trusted Laboratory partner and a center of excellence in contracting and related activities.

We are seeking a Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management to partner with the Group Head in leading a high-performing organization of approximately 50 professionals. This role operates within a shared leadership model, where responsibilities are aligned and coordinated to ensure seamless execution and full leadership coverage. The Deputy Head is primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the group, while contributing to strategic direction and organizational effectiveness.

As the Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management, you will:

• Lead & Execute: Oversee the day-to-day operations of a large contracting organization, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and timely execution across a dynamic portfolio.
• Shape Strategy: Partner with the Group Head to set priorities, align resources, and drive strategic initiatives that enhance organizational performance.
• Develop Talent: Build and sustain a strong leadership bench by coaching managers, developing high-potential staff, and fostering a culture of accountability and growth.
• Drive Excellence: Establish and leverage performance metrics to improve efficiency, transparency, and decision-making.
• Provide Expertise: Advise on complex contract strategy, negotiations, and regulatory interpretation (FAR/DFARS), and support resolution of high-impact issues.
• Innovate & Improve: Lead process modernization efforts, including adoption of digital tools and AI-enabled solutions to enhance contracting effectiveness.
• Strengthen Partnerships: Collaborate across the organization to deliver mission impact and elevate the role of contracting as a strategic partner.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• Have 10+ years of experience in Federal Government “prime contracting” within the private sector.
• Have 5+ years of leadership and/or management experience with demonstrated ability to manage teams and exercise sound judgment.
• Can demonstrate proven success negotiating complex contracts and developing contract and fee strategies.
• Have deep knowledge of FAR/DFARS and their practical application.
• Have experience overseeing complex, high-value contracting activities.
• Can demonstrate the ability to lead in a complex environment, drive change, and execute effectively.
• Possess strong leadership, mentoring, and relationship-building skills.
• Have experience using data and metrics to inform decisions and improve operations.
• Can demonstrate excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Have high integrity and sound judgment.
• Are able to ultimately obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• Possess a Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• Have experience leading at the group or section level, particularly within APL or a similar organization.
• Have experience with Workday or similar HRIS platforms.

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Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust…