Vice President of Program Management

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Job Description

About the Company

We are a global leader in advanced aerospace systems, autonomous defense technologies, satellite platforms, and next-generation mission-critical infrastructure. Our integrated solutions support government agencies, commercial aerospace operators, space exploration initiatives, and national security programs across 30+ countries.

Our portfolio includes orbital satellite constellations, secure communications platforms, AI-enabled defense systems, advanced avionics, and complex systems integration programs with contract values exceeding multi-billion-dollar levels.

Operating at the convergence of aerospace engineering, artificial intelligence, cyber-secure infrastructure, and large-scale systems integration, we execute programs that require extreme precision, regulatory compliance, and flawless cross-functional coordination.

We are seeking a Vice President of Program Management to lead global enterprise-level program execution across multi-year, multi-billion-dollar initiatives.

This is not a traditional PMO leadership role. This is a strategic executive position accountable for delivering mission-critical programs at a global scale.


Job Function

The VP of Program Management will oversee the governance, execution, risk management, and strategic alignment of large-scale aerospace and defense programs. This executive will lead a global portfolio of complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives spanning engineering, manufacturing, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, and supply chain operations.

The role requires deep experience managing high-value government and commercial contracts, advanced systems integration, and globally distributed teams operating in regulated environments.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead enterprise-wide program governance across a $5B+ cumulative contract portfolio

  • Oversee execution of multi-year aerospace and defense programs from initiation through deployment

  • Establish and enforce program management standards aligned with aerospace and government regulatory frameworks

  • Direct cross-functional coordination across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Compliance, and Cybersecurity

  • Manage enterprise risk mitigation strategies for complex systems integration projects

  • Ensure compliance with international regulatory bodies and defense contracting standards

  • Drive cost, schedule, and performance accountability across all programs

  • Lead executive-level reporting to Board members and government stakeholders

  • Implement advanced portfolio management tools and predictive performance analytics

  • Oversee subcontractor performance and global supply chain integration

  • Manage escalation processes for mission-critical risks and operational challenges

  • Guide the digital transformation of program management methodologies and tools


Strategic Support

  • Align program portfolio execution with corporate growth and innovation strategy

  • Support global expansion into new defense and aerospace markets

  • Contribute to acquisition strategy, due diligence, and integration planning

  • Advise executive leadership on enterprise risk posture and resilience strategy

  • Participate in contract negotiation strategy for large-scale government and commercial bids

  • Develop long-term capability frameworks for scalable program execution


Job Qualifications and Requirements

  • 15+ years of progressive leadership in large-scale program management

  • 8+ years leading aerospace, defense, space systems, or advanced engineering programs

  • Proven track record managing portfolios exceeding $1B+ in annual contract value

  • Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks (FAA, DoD, NATO, or equivalent international standards)

  • Experience in systems engineering lifecycle management

  • Expertise in Earned Value Management (EVM) and advanced risk modeling

  • Demonstrated success leading globally distributed teams (100+ program personnel)

  • Strong financial oversight and cost-control expertise

  • Master’s degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Business Administration, or related field preferred

  • PMP, PgMP, or equivalent executive-level certifications strongly preferred


Personal Capabilities and Qualifications

  • Executive presence with the ability to interface with government and defense stakeholders

  • Exceptional risk management and crisis leadership skills

  • Systems-level strategic thinker

  • Strong negotiation and influence capabilities

  • High resilience in complex, regulated environments

  • Strong analytical and operational decision-making abilities

  • Ability to balance innovation with regulatory compliance

  • Ethical leadership and commitment to mission integrity


Working Conditions

  • Hybrid executive model with secure facility access requirements

  • 20–35% international travel across global program sites

  • High-accountability environment tied to mission-critical outcomes

  • Participation in classified and regulated program reviews (as required)

  • Fast-paced, performance-driven leadership culture


Compensation & Benefits

Total Compensation Package: $240,000 – $360,000 USD

Executive Compensation Includes:

  • Competitive base salary within stated range

  • Performance-based annual incentive bonus

  • Long-term equity or executive incentive plan participation

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

  • Executive retirement and deferred compensation options

  • Relocation assistance and global mobility programs

  • Executive leadership development sponsorship

  • Generous PTO and global holiday benefits

  • Wellness and executive performance programs


Why Join Us

  • Lead programs that shape the future of aerospace and autonomous systems

  • Influence multi-billion-dollar global initiatives

  • Operate at the forefront of advanced defense and space innovation

  • Work alongside world-class engineers and executive leaders

  • Competitive executive compensation aligned with impact

  • Opportunity to leave a legacy in mission-critical global infrastructure