Program Manager - Strategic Communications

Blackberg Group is seeking a Program Manager to serve as the senior leader responsible for delivery of integrated communications and public affairs support to the Defense Health Agency (DHA). This role provides strategic direction, operational oversight, and quality assurance across all communications functions, ensuring alignment with DHA leadership priorities and mission objectives.

The Program Manager leads a multidisciplinary team delivering enterprise communications planning, executive communications, media relations, digital content, analytics, and stakeholder engagement in a high-visibility, fast-paced Department of War environment. This role requires deep experience managing complex federal communications programs, coordinating across senior stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal requirements, including Section 508 and Plain Language standards. The Program Manager serves as the primary point of contact for the Government and ensures seamless execution across all task areas.

This position is contingent upon award, with an anticipated start date in late spring.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for DHA leadership, the Contracting Officer, and COR
• Lead day-to-day management of all communications operations across the Director's office and Military Health System (MHS) communication
• Oversee execution of integrated communications strategies, campaigns, and deliverables
• Manage staffing, onboarding, and performance of a 40 person multidisciplinary team
• Develop and maintain program management artifacts (e.g., Program Management Plan, Quality Control Plan)
• Ensure compliance with DHA policies, DoW guidance, Section 508, and Plain Language requirements
• Monitor performance metrics, risks, and quality; implement corrective actions as needed
• Coordinate across communications functions to ensure synchronized, enterprise-wide messaging
• Provide strategic communications advisory services to DHA leadership and stakeholders
• Manage surge and short-suspense requirements without disruption to ongoing operations

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Health, or related field
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
• 10 years of experience managing large-scale communications or public affairs programs
• Minimum 5 years of experience supporting Department of War programs and the Military Health System (MHS)
• Demonstrated experience managing complex teams and multi-project environments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting DHA or other federal healthcare communications programs
• Experience managing programs with 30 personnel
• Familiarity with DHA platforms (e.g., health.mil, DVIDS, SharePoint-based systems)
• Experience implementing data-driven communications and analytics frameworks

About Blackberg Group

Blackberg Group is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) delivering integrated strategy, communications, operations, digital services, and organizational effectiveness to federal agencies. At Blackberg Group, strategic prowess meets creative ingenuity to redefine the future of public service. We tackle challenges head-on, turning obstacles into opportunities. Simultaneously, we embrace bold creativity—incorporating fresh perspectives into every endeavor.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Blackberg Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Pay: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Please provide a brief description of your experience supporting Department of War or Military Health System. State whether you have direct Defense Health Agency experience.
• Do you currently hold an active Project Management Professional (PMP) certification?
• Do you have prior civilian or military experience at a senior level?

Education:

• Master's (Required)

Experience:

• strategic communications: 10 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Falls Church, VA 22042 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $150,000 - $180,000