Senior Director of Finance

Job Description

Job Description

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

In this role, you will serve as the senior financial leader for Karman’s Defense business, guiding financial strategy, ensuring fiscal integrity, and driving operational and strategic decision‑making. You will partner closely with site leadership to deliver accurate reporting, strengthen internal controls, and enable strong financial performance across a dynamic, high‑growth environment.

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes financial strategies that support business objectives and long‑term planning.
• Advises leadership on financial planning, risk management, and investment strategies.
• Leads budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes with timely and accurate reporting.
• Manages cash flow, working capital, and treasury functions to support operational needs.
• Ensures compliance with accounting standards, statutory regulations, and tax requirements.
• Identifies financial risks and implements mitigation strategies.
• Coordinates activities with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies.
• Oversees finance operations, mentors staff, and advances professional development within the team.
• Implements and enhances financial controls, systems, and processes to improve efficiency and reduce risk.
• Presents financial results and forecasts to senior leadership and supports investor‑related activities.
• Partners with department leads to enable informed financial decision‑making and operational improvements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or similar designation.
• 8–12 or more years of progressive finance experience, including 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Understanding of accounting principles, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Experience with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contracting.
• Experience supporting Sarbanes‑Oxley Act (SOX) compliance.
• Experience managing Controllers or finance departments in complex business environments.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and strategic‑thinking capabilities.
• Proven leadership and people‑management skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Office, Excel, and data‑visualization tools such as Power BI.
• Proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or NetSuite.
• Experience supporting capital investment, operational improvement, or cost‑reduction initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) or master’s degree.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD &D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.