Program Management Director

The Director of Programs is responsible for the successful execution and strategic oversight of complex defense manufacturing programs from initiation through delivery. This role ensures that all projects meet cost, schedule, technical, and quality requirements while aligning with U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) regulations, customer expectations, and company profitability goals. The Director will lead a team of Program Managers and Project Managers working cross-functionally with engineering, operations, supply chain, and quality to deliver mission-critical components and systems to military and defense sector clients.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead the execution of a portfolio of defense manufacturing programs with accountability for scope, cost, schedule, and risk across all projects.
• Serve as the primary point of escalation for high-level program issues, customer concerns, and partner/vendor relationships.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with prime contractor stakeholders, ensuring ongoing compliance with contract terms, CDRLs, and programmatic expectations.
• Ensure programs operate in compliance with ITAR, DFARS, FAR, and other applicable defense regulations.
• Develop and oversee program metrics and reporting dashboards, delivering timely updates on performance, risk, and mitigation strategies to the CCO and senior leadership.
• Develop policies, procedures and work instruction for the PM organization.
• Direct the development, approval, and execution of program plans, risk management strategies, critical path schedules, and change control processes.
• Proactively identify scope growth or change opportunities to drive additional value and profitability within existing contracts.
• Interface directly with internal and external entities during audits, inspections, and program reviews.
• Lead contract reviews, milestone gate reviews, and post-mortem analyses to capture lessons learned and improve future program performance.
• Coordinate cross-functional alignment and resource planning across departments to ensure successful delivery, quality, and cost objectives.
• Advocate for continuous improvement, lean practices, and program management process enhancements across the organization.
• Manage, mentor, and grow a team of Program Managers, Project Managers, and support staff.
• Set performance objectives and KPIs for the program team, fostering a culture of accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Support succession planning and talent development to strengthen program leadership capability.
• Apply your expertise/experience to foster a culture of creative collaboration and inspire team members to think outside the box to champion innovative ideas.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with the ability to manage risk, forecast financial performance, and drive cost efficiency.
• Capable of interpreting technical documentation, contracts, and complex schedules.
• Must be able to make data-driven decisions and lead resolution of critical issues under pressure.
• All other duties as assigned

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Program Management, or related field required.
• Master’s degree (MBA or technical discipline) strongly preferred.
• PMP certification required.
• Additional certifications such as Six Sigma, Lean, CPIM, or PgMP are a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in program management within defense or aerospace manufacturing.
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership role managing cross-functional teams and complex program portfolios.
• Deep knowledge of defense manufacturing processes, including welding, machining, heavy steel fabrication, and complex assemblies.
• Strong understanding of DoD contract requirements, export control regulations (ITAR), and federal acquisition guidelines (FAR/DFARS).
• Demonstrated experience interfacing with military customers, OEMs, and Tier 1 defense contractors.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Excel, ERP systems, and program management tools.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM), Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), and other defense program control tools is preferred.