Director of Programs

Scope of Position

A leading aerospace and defense company is seeking a Director of Programs to oversee and drive the successful execution of multiple complex domestic programs. This role ensures projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and aligned with customer expectations while optimizing revenue, cash flow, and operational efficiency. The Director of Programs will mentor and guide Program Managers, ensuring adherence to best practices in project management.

Responsibilities

Program Oversight & Leadership

• Manage a team of program managers who oversee multiple large-scale projects.
• Ensure program scope, resources, financial performance, and schedules are effectively managed.
• Balance competing departmental needs and interdepartmental collaboration (e.g., engineering, contracts, manufacturing).
• Report program performance, risks, and financials to senior leadership.

Proposal Development & Execution

• Lead proposal efforts in response to domestic and international Requests for Quotations (RFQs).
• Define program requirements, develop implementation plans, and establish work breakdown structures.
• Identify and qualify subcontractors, negotiate contracts, and ensure cost-effective bidding.
• Finalize detailed cost estimates and review proposals for accuracy and completeness.

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Develop and implement operational budgets and strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Recruit, mentor, and direct key personnel within the program management function.
• Establish performance measurement systems to track operational, financial, and departmental success.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable U.S. and international regulations and corporate policies.

Risk Management & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and mitigate technical, financial, and resource availability risks.
• Drive process improvements to enhance organizational efficiency and program execution.
• Foster strong customer relationships, identifying opportunities for growth and revenue expansion.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience in U.S. Government and international program management within the aerospace/defense electronics industry.
• Proven track record of managing $100M programs and delivering them on time and within budget.
• Experience with risk management, financial oversight, and process improvement within large-scale programs.
• Strong ability to manage Integrated Master Schedules (IMS), Contract Work Breakdown Structures (CWBS), and Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs) per industry standards.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage at all organizational levels.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Management, Computer Science, or Business (Master’s degree preferred).
• PMP certification is a plus.
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.