Director of Program Management

I'm currently partnering with a leading aerospace and defense manufacturer that supplies highly engineered metal components into the aerospace, defense and space markets.

Following continued growth and investment, the business is looking to appoint a Director of Program Management to lead strategic customer-funded R&D and New Program Introduction programs.

This is a high-visibility role focused on building structure, driving cross-functional execution, and ensuring complex programs are delivered from customer award through production readiness.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic R&D and NPI programs from customer award through production readiness

• Develop and implement a structured, phase-gated NPI process

• Act as a key customer-facing contact for scope, schedule, cost and technical requirements

• Lead cross-functional teams across Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain and Manufacturing

• Manage program milestones, risks, financials, forecasts and cost-to-complete

• Drive change management, risk mitigation and issue resolution

• Ensure customer, contractual, quality and regulatory requirements are fully understood and executed

• Support continuous improvement across program management processes, tools and execution

• Help build a scalable program management function as the business continues to grow

What we're looking for

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management or a related field

• 10 years of experience within aerospace, defense, space or regulated manufacturing

• 5 years of direct program or project management experience

• Strong NPI, product launch, customer-funded R&D or production readiness experience

• Experience developing structured program management processes

• Strong customer management and stakeholder communication skills

• Understanding of manufacturing processes, engineering change control, AS9100 and FAI

• Ability to lead cross-functionally and influence without direct authority

• Knowledge of FAR, DFARS, export controls and government contracting is beneficial

• ERP experience required, with Epicor experience a plus

• PMP certification, Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Engineering background would be advantageous

• Must be a U.S. Person

• Travel up to 30%

Why consider this opportunity?

• Join a well established aerospace and defense manufacturer supporting mission-critical programs

• Lead the development of a disciplined NPI and program management function

• Work closely with senior leadership and strategic customers

• Shape how complex programs are launched, industrialized and scaled

• Opportunity to make a genuine impact in a growing, investment-backed environment

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package