Director I - Strategic Operations

Job Description
BAE Systems is hiring a Director I - Strategic Operations to support our Combat Mission Systems (CMS) business in Louisville, KY. This senior leadership role is responsible for supporting the Director of Operations/Site Lead in overseeing the operational activities for Weapon Systems. Overseeing workflow management, administration of reporting processes, management of security protocols, alignment of personnel and functional areas, and providing informed recommendations to the Director of Operations to achieve mission objectives. The successful candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing operations and program driven organizations, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to drive strategic initiatives.

Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Assist the Director of Operations in developing and implementing operational strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of products.
• Program Management: Oversee and manage multiple programs from New Product Introduction to proposal development and then through production execution ensuring they are on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This role will also drive process improvements and best practices to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.
• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks proactively to ensure compliance with requirements and organizational policies.
• People & Team Development: Influence and support the development of operations professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and mentorship to ensure they have the skills and expertise needed to excel in their roles.
• Collaboration and Communication: Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders, including senior leadership, program managers, and functional teams, as well as external partners, such as government agencies, contractors, and suppliers.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development of strategic plans and goals, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and defense industry trends.
• Compliance and Governance: Ensure compliance with defense regulations, laws, and organizational policies, and maintain a culture of ethics and integrity.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Ability to obtain DoD Secret Security Clearance
• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business, Engineering, Operations Management) and 12 years work experience or equivalent experience
• Experience in Manufacturing Operations Management
• Experience in People Management
• Experience in Manufacturing Process Improvement
• Experience in Change and Innovation
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex programs and teams
• Ability to ensure compliance with Defense industry regulations, laws, and policies
• Ability to think strategically and drive innovation
• Ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including leadership, customers, program managers, team leaders, and individual contributors
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive results, and ensure accountability to deliver on technical, quality, schedule, and cost deliverables
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Active DoD Secret Security Clearance
• Master's Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business, Engineering, Operations Management)
• Certification in a relevant field (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma)
• Experience in Defense industry manufacturing/contracting, procurement, and acquisition processes
• Experience in Defense industry trends and technologies
• Experience in MES/system implementation, digital transformation, or automating processes
• Experience in Capital projects, expansions, equipment introductions, etc.
• Experience in Proposals, Pricing, Cost Estimates, or Budgeting with strong Financial Acumen
• Experience in Process development, improvement, consistency
• Experience in Manufacturing Engineering, transitioning products to full production, or new product introduction (NPI)
• Experience in Performance Management, including turnaround operations
• Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve manufacturing/technical issues
• Ability to serve as a change champion and introduce innovation

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $153377 - $260743

Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.

Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20 hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.


About BAE Systems Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.

The Platforms & Services (P&S) sector under BAE Systems, Inc does the big stuff: the armored combat vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair…just to name a few. Our employees take pride in the work they do and why they do it. They are on the front lines every day, building our products to protect the lives of those who serve. We may be biased, but we think P&S does some of the coolest work around, and we think you will too.

Salary : $153,377 - $260,743