Lead Program Manager

The Opportunity The Lead Program Manager is responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and delivery of defense programs in an organization. How I Will Contribute Oversee the development and execution of defense programs, ensuring that they are delivered on‑time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Develop and maintain strong relationships with defense customers and stakeholders, ensuring that their needs and expectations are met while expanding on the relationships with new products or services as appropriate. Develop a strategic plan while leading critical programs with significant and long‑term business impact. Become responsible for ensuring the programs success as programs work through their defined lifecycle. Strategically manage and forecast financial metrics on assigned programs, planning and executing to align with future business goals. Steer program efforts to align with strategic business goals. Develop and track against long‑term program plans to maintain and expand program business. Lead budget planning that manages progress of projects against financial targets, while adjusting the needed execution tactics to meet program goals. Actively manage Risk & Opportunity tracking and mitigation plans. Track program status and provide regular business updates to senior leadership and any relevant stakeholders. Lead major contract negotiations. Partner with the Sales and Business Development departments cross‑functionally to follow up on leads for new program opportunities. Lead internal team efforts across functional groups to meet contractual deliverables, proactively removing roadblocks for the team. Provide oversight of direct PM reports with responsibilities aligned with a business area and act as a mentor for junior PMs. What You Bring To Safran Federal Systems Bachelor's degree in engineering, business administration, or related field is required. Master's degree in a related field is preferred. Minimum of 8 years of experience in defense program management, with a bachelor’s degree required; or a master’s degree required. Equivalent work or military experience in lieu of a degree will be considered to fulfill degree requirements. Experience managing large and complex defense programs, including multiple sub‑contractors and suppliers. Ability to travel up to 20% both domestically and internationally. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners. Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously. Active security clearance is strongly preferred; willingness to obtain a clearance upon hire is required. Ability to work under pressure and meet multiple deadlines. Ability to reason logically and make sound decisions, consider alternative perspectives, and communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills across various organizational levels. Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. Occasional movement around the office to access file cabinets and office machinery is required. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Please note this description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. #J-18808-Ljbffr