Stratolaunch accelerates the development of next-generation aerospace and defense technologies through reusable hypersonic flight testing. Our autonomous, air-launched Talon-A vehicles provide access to operationally realistic flight environments at speeds exceeding Mach 5, delivering critical data that helps customers validate system performance and advance technologies toward deployment. Our team brings together expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations to solve complex challenges and advance capabilities essential to national security.

To achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Director. This visible leadership role is responsible for the successful execution of complex, multi-disciplinary programs, including strategic planning, cross-functional team leadership, and is responsible for all aspects of program delivery and organizational growth. The role spans the design and development, manufacturing, and flight test of a fleet of expendable hypersonic targets. A candidate for this role must be comfortable leading cross-functional teams in a strong matrixed environment, driving the execution of a high-complexity technical project. A strong candidate will have a strong sense of urgency and will be able to make difficult programmatic decisions in an environment where not all the desired information is available.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership

Lead strategic program initiatives and present clear and concise information in executive forums, customer engagements, and internal leadership meetings
Mentor, coach, and develop program managers and team leads across the program

Program Oversight & Execution

Oversee execution of multiple, concurrent programs with full responsibility for cost, schedule, technical performance, and customer satisfaction
Own and maintain a positive customer relationship by producing results
Drive the adoption of advanced program management processes, tools, and best practices
Make high-impact decisions affecting program direction, resource allocation, and risk posture
Lead program forecasting and budgeting activities, ensuring accurate financial planning and alignment with organizational goals
Manage revenue recognition and contract invoicing processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and timely billing
Monitor and report on program financial performance, proactively addressing variances and risks

Strategic Planning & Business Growth

Partner with executive leadership and department heads to define long-term program strategies, business plans, and growth opportunities
Lead the development of new business proposals, capture strategies, and customer engagement plans
Identify and pursue opportunities for program expansion, technology insertion, and process improvement

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

Serve as the primary point of contact for key customers, government agencies, and strategic partners
Negotiate complex contracts, manage high-level customer relationships, and ensure alignment with customer objectives and expectations

Risk, Compliance & Governance

Oversee program risk management, compliance, and governance activities, including classified program execution and security requirements
Proactively manage risk by developing risk mitigation plans and driving technical risks to closure with a high sense of urgency
Ensure adherence to all regulatory, contractual, and quality standards

Organizational Leadership

Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement
Lead cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, procurement, finance, legal) to ensure seamless program execution
Champion overall team growth and development, including talent acquisition, onboarding, training, and professional advancement
Develop and manage senior-level talent pipelines and succession planning to support long-term organizational objectives
Promote team engagement, collaboration, and high performance through effective communication and recognition programs
Implement organizational development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and drive business results