Program Manager

Terms of Employment

• Direct Hire
• This position is on-site in Columbus, MS.
• This is a full-time position, 40 hours per week.

Overview

Our client, a leading provider of solutions in the design and manufacture of technologically sophisticated aerospace defense systems. They are seeking a dynamic and experienced Program Manager to oversee their Department of Defense (DOD) programs. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of cost structures, tracking, scheduling, and performance management, coupled with a Product Owner mindset towards product excellence. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to effectively interface with customers, translating their needs into actionable plans and production processes. A Project Management Professional (PMP) or Program Management Professional (PgMP) certification is required for this position.
Responsibilities

• Lead and manage DOD programs from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to project scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards.
• Develop and maintain program plans, schedules, and budgets, closely monitoring project progress and performance against established metrics.
• Drive cost-effective solutions and resource allocation strategies, optimizing program profitability while maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, understanding their requirements, expectations, and feedback, and effectively communicating these internally to the project team.
• Champion a customer-centric approach to product development, advocating for the voice of the customer throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless integration and execution of program objectives.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to project team members, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Identify and mitigate risks and issues proactively, implementing appropriate contingency plans to minimize project disruptions.
• Drive performance excellence through the implementation of best practices, standardized processes, and lessons learned from previous projects.
• Prepare and deliver regular program status reports and presentations to senior management and stakeholders, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or Program Management Professional (PgMP) certification required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in program management, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry, with a proven track record of successfully managing DOD programs.
• Deep understanding of cost structures, price monitoring, financial analysis, and budget management, with the ability to drive cost-effective solutions and maximize program profitability.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams towards common goals.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively interface with customers, senior management, and internal stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software, such as Microsoft Project, Primavera, or similar applications.
• Experience working with government contracts and familiarity with DOD acquisition processes and regulations is highly desirable.
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance as required.