VP of Programs

Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership & Execution:
• Lead the management of multiple maritime autonomy programs, ensuring alignment with company strategy and defense industry needs.
• Oversee the full program lifecycle, including planning, design, development, testing, and deployment of unmanned maritime solutions.
• Ensure that all program objectives, schedules, and budgets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
• Develop and maintain detailed program plans, timelines, and budgets, and track key milestones and deliverables.


• Cross-Functional Team Collaboration:
• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, R&D, production, and operations to achieve program goals.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to program managers and teams, ensuring collaboration and clear communication.
• Facilitate regular program reviews and status meetings to assess progress, address risks, and ensure alignment.


• Stakeholder Management & Communication:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for government customers, contractors, and internal stakeholders regarding program status, risks, and opportunities.
• Develop and present clear, concise program reports to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
• Ensure effective communication with military and defense agencies, providing updates on program milestones, challenges, and successes.


• Risk Management & Issue Resolution:
• Identify program risks and proactively develop mitigation strategies to address potential issues.
• Address program challenges and roadblocks swiftly, working with internal and external stakeholders to resolve them in a timely manner.
• Ensure that programs adhere to safety, compliance, and regulatory standards.


• Financial & Resource Management:
• Manage program budgets and resources efficiently to ensure the optimal allocation of assets and timely delivery of outcomes.
• Monitor financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure cost control measures are implemented across all programs.
• Ensure that contracts and financial agreements are executed and adhered to, including government contracts and other external partnerships.


• Innovation & Continuous Improvement:
• Drive innovation by keeping abreast of emerging trends and technologies in unmanned systems and defense technologies.
• Advocate for continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce risks, and improve program performance.
• Encourage and lead the integration of new technologies and methodologies into program workflows.

Qualifications

• Experience:
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in program management, with at least 5 years in the defense technology or unmanned systems sectors.
• Proven track record of managing large, complex programs with a focus on unmanned maritime systems, autonomous vehicles, or related technologies.
• Experience managing programs for government defense agencies (e.g., Department of Defense, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard) and/or defense contractors.
• Expertise in government contracting processes, including acquisition cycles, budgeting, and compliance.


• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• PMP (Project Management Professional) or similar certification is highly desirable (RMP is a big plus).


• Skills & Abilities:
• Strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to lead and motivate diverse, cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• In-depth knowledge of unmanned systems, autonomous vehicles, and defense industry operations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency with program management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Smartsheets, etc.).

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
• Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
• Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
• Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office