Director of Programs - Mission Systems

Job Title : Director of Programs - Mission Systems Work Type : Onsite Location: Gilbert, AZ Salary : $185,000 – $215,000 Overview Our client, a federal contractor supporting U.S. Defense and homeland security missions, is seeking an experienced Director of Programs – C5ISR to lead the Program Management Office (PMO) and oversee the financial, operational, and execution performance of a portfolio focused on C5ISR border and perimeter surveillance programs. The Director of Programs will lead approximately 8–15 programs and all Program Managers, ensuring programs are delivered on time, within budget, at required quality levels, and at targeted margins. This role also supports business development, proposals, and growth opportunities with existing customers and contracts. The ideal candidate will have experience managing complex technology programs involving the design, integration, production, deployment, and sustainment of C4ISR/C5ISR, command-and-control, persistent surveillance, border security, or related mission systems. Key Responsibilities P&L & Business Leadership Own the program portfolio P&L, including revenue, margins, expenses, forecasting, and cash flow. Drive portfolio performance against financial, operational, schedule, quality, and customer objectives. Balance customer commitments, resources, organizational capacity, and program requirements. PMO & Program Management Leadership Lead the Program Management Office and oversee the performance and development of all Program Managers. Establish effective PMO processes, governance, reporting, and operating standards. Resolve cross-program priorities, resource conflicts, and escalated execution issues. Build and develop a high-performing, scalable Program Management organization. Business Development & Customer Growth Lead growth opportunities associated with ongoing programs and existing customers, including follow-on contracts, extensions, options, scope expansions, upgrades, and sustainment. Partner with Program Managers and Business Development to identify customer needs and support proposals and capture activities. Maintain strong relationships with government customers, prime contractors, subcontractors, and strategic partners. Operational Leadership Align program commitments with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Finance, Human Resources, and other supporting functions. Drive improvements in delivery predictability, quality, efficiency, and cost. Partner with company leadership on organizational growth, major opportunities, and resource planning. Organizational Scope Direct Reports: Program Managers and applicable PMO/Program Controls personnel. The Director of Programs owns the program portfolio’s financial performance, PMO effectiveness, Program Manager development, portfolio risk, customer relationships, and growth opportunities associated with existing programs. Program Managers remain accountable for the day-to-day execution of their…