What are the responsibilities and job description for the CENTCOM PAO Program Manager position at Vistra Communications?
Description
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Public Affairs Office (PAO) seeks a mission-driven Program Manager to lead and coordinate a high-performing contract team supporting strategic communications, media engagement, and content production. This role serves as the critical liaison between CENTCOM PAO leadership and Vistra Communications, ensuring seamless execution of communication initiatives in a dynamic, high-tempo environment. The Program Manager will lead a diverse workforce of up to 40 personnel, manage schedules and project milestones, oversee resource allocation, and maintain consistent communication with client leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Program Planning and Execution· Develop and implement comprehensive program plans outlining objectives, milestones, timelines, deliverables, and resource allocation.· Coordinate with client and company leadership to ensure program alignment with mission goals and strategic objectives.
Resource Management· Allocate and manage contractor personnel, travel budgets, and technical resources to optimize performance and productivity within established constraints.· Participate in the identification, recruitment, and onboarding of new employees as required to meet evolving mission needs.
Risk Management and Mitigation· Identify potential risks and operational challenges across all program areas.· Develop and implement proactive mitigation strategies to minimize impact and maintain operational continuity.
Quality Assurance and Control· Establish and enforce quality standards, procedures, and metrics to evaluate program deliverables.· Ensure all outputs meet or exceed client expectations and contractual performance standards.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting· Prepare and disseminate monthly, quarterly, and annual performance reports detailing program metrics, trends, and recommendations.· Support client decision-making through timely, data-driven analysis and reporting.
Workforce Leadership and Performance Management· Establish and maintain clear performance standards and procedures for all contract personnel.· Develop and manage performance improvement plans for personnel not meeting established expectations.· Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Client Liaison and Communication· Serve as the primary point of contact between the client and company management to address issues, resolve conflicts, and ensure mission success.· Communicate effectively through written reports, briefings, and presentations to senior leadership.
Surge and Crisis Supports: Provide 24/7 leadership availability to support emergent surge requirements during crises or unforeseen events, as directed by the CCPA Director.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Affairs, Business, or related field.
· Must possess Top Secret/ SCI security clearance.
· 7 years of experience managing large-scale communications or public affairs programs.
· Proven experience managing contract teams of 40 personnel.
· Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
· Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines in a high-pressure environment.
· Familiarity with U.S. military structure, culture, and terminology.
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including briefing and public affairs expertise.
· Experience with strategic communication planning, media engagement, and multimedia content production.
Desired Experience and Education
· Master’s degree in a relevant field.
· Experience supporting DoD or Combatant Command-level public affairs operations.
· Familiarity with CENTCOM’s mission and area of responsibility (AOR).
About Vistra: Vistra Communications, doing business as Vistra and Vistra Federal Solutions, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL with an office in Springfield, VA providing professional support serviced to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies. Approximately 25% of our “team member” employees work in the National Capital Region, providing communications, outreach, and organizational transformation services to our public sector customers. Vistra provides medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off, Parental and Bereavement Leave, and Professional Development, among other benefits.
US Citizenship Required: Due to the requirements of the federal contract that this position supports, U.S. citizenship is required. Citizenship will be confirmed via I-9/E-Verify at the start of employment.
