VP, Loitering Munitions Systems; Business Unit

Worker Type Regular Job  Description VP, Loitering Munitions Systems (Business Unit)
Summary Aero Vironment  (AV) is seeking an experienced, visionary Vice President to lead our Loitering Munitions Systems (LMS) Business Unit within the Precision Strike and Defensive Systems Group. This position is based in our Southern California Simi Valley location, reporting to the Senior Vice President, General Manager, Precision Strike & Defensive Systems. This senior executive will be accountable for driving business growth, operational excellence, and strategic execution across a rapidly evolving, high-impact portfolio that directly supports U.S. and allied national security objectives.

The VP, LMS will own the end-to-end lifecycle of loitering munitions products and programs—from concept development and customer engagement through engineering, manufacturing, delivery, and long-term sustainment. This role will translate AV’s mission into operational reality by fielding capabilities that materially improve warfighter effectiveness and allied readiness.

This role requires deep domain expertise in aerospace and defense, a strong record of leading large, technically complex P&L organizations, and the ability to align product innovation with emerging threat environments and customer mission needs.

Position Responsibilities Develop and execute the strategic vision and long-term growth roadmap for the LMS Business Unit, in alignment with AV’s corporate strategy, with a clear focus on winning strategic programs/captures and expanding our market position.

Full P&L responsibility for the LMS Business Unit, including revenue, margin, cash, and investment decisions.

Own and deliver the Annual Operating Plan (AOP), driving consistent revenue growth, margin improvement, and disciplined cost management.

Lead product strategy and roadmap, ensuring our loitering munitions portfolio maintains clear technical and operational differentiation in the market.

Oversee successful execution of development, production, and sustainment programs, with a strong focus on cost, schedule, technical performance, quality, and customer satisfaction, while standing up or maturing critical capabilities in coordination with operations (e.g., new manufacturing lines, new variant fielding, improved on-time delivery).Ensure rigorous compliance with all applicable government regulations (e.g., ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS), internal policies, and the highest ethical standards.

Build and sustain trusted relationships with key customers, including U.S. and international defense agencies, military services, and prime contractors.

Partner closely with Business Development and Capture teams to shape opportunities, lead key captures, and expand into adjacent markets, mission sets, and technology applications.

Attract, develop, and retain a high-performing leadership team; build strong leadership and technical bench strength across the organization.

Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Represent LMS and AV at senior customer meetings, industry forums, and internal executive reviews.

Travel frequently within the U.S. and internationally, as required.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology, with deep knowledge of loitering munitions, uncrewed systems, or closely related systems.

At least 7–10 years of progressive people-leadership experience, including direct responsibility for senior leaders.

Demonstrated success leading high-growth, complex P&L…