VP of Aerospace & Defense Operations

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Active Full-Time Executive US

2 days ago Requisition

About Company:

Element U.S. Space & Defense stands at the forefront of testing innovation, serving as a trusted partner to NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense, government agencies, and prominent industry leaders across the space and defense sectors. Founded as NTS Technical Systems, our company brings over 60 years of experience and expertise in handling the most complex projects and programs in the world.

From centrifuge testing for the latest Mars rover, vibration testing for the Space Launch System (SLS), to environmental simulations for next-generation missiles, we are the pioneering partner for highly custom, end-to-end testing design and implementation. By advancing our state-of-the‑art testing technologies, subject matter expertise, and service to critical missions, Element U.S. Space & Defense has become the go‑to partner for ground‑breaking industries.

What We Offer:

Growth & Development:

• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment.
• The chance to work on groundbreaking projects that shape the future of space and defense.

Benefits: Employees are eligible to participate in the benefits offered throughout their availability, including the following:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts
• Seven (7) paid holidays and four (4) paid floating holidays, depending on your hire date
• Paid Time Off (PTO), accrued biweekly
• 401k with employer match
• Twelve (12) hours of Paid Volunteer Time Off (PVTO) each year
• Tuition reimbursement and other employee programs
• Flexible schedules offered at some of our labs
• Monthly Lab Bonus plans (Based on position)

Salary:
At EUSSD, compensation is determined through a comprehensive approach that considers candidate qualifications, role responsibilities, market benchmarks, and organizational needs. Pay may vary by location with potential eligibility for bonuses or commission depending on the role.

Summary:

The VP of Aerospace & Defense Operations provides strategic and operational leadership for a portfolio of testing businesses across multiple facilities and business units. Reporting as a key member of the senior leadership team, this role leads General Managers, Quality, Safety and is accountable for driving revenue growth, EBITDA performance, operational excellence, customer & employee satisfaction, safety, quality, and talent development across the organization.

The Vice President develops and executes long-term growth strategies, oversees business performance, and strengthens executive‑level customer relationships within the aerospace, defense, space, and government sectors. This leader fosters a high-performance, people‑first culture while prioritizing employee engagement, leadership development, accountability, inclusion, and collaboration while driving scalable growth, market expansion, and continuous improvement. The Vice President serves as a visible and approachable leader who inspires teams, develops future leaders, creates an environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and connected to the organizations’ mission and values.

Primary Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Business Growth:

• Champion a people‑first leadership philosophy that recognizes employees as a key competitive advantage and critical driver of long‑term business success.
• Lead organizational change initiatives in a manner that builds trust, transparency, employee engagement, and organizational commitment.
• Create alignment between business objectives and workforce strategies to ensure sustainable growth while maintaining strong employee experience. Build trust, establish credibility, and influence stakeholders at all levels. Navigate complex situations and gain alignment.
• Develop and execute multi‑year strategic plans that drive sustainable growth, profitability, and market leadership across the Aerospace & Defense Testing…