Program Director - Hypersonic Vehicle

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security. To achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Program Director with at least 20 years of relevant experience. 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 next-generation reusable hypersonic test vehicles. 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 Reporting & Communication Provide regular, comprehensive program status reports and executive briefings to the C-suite and Board of Directors Communicate program vision, goals, and progress to internal and external stakeholders Travel Domestic and occasional international travel as-required to support program and company objectives Qualifications Required Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in technical and/or program management, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal-level leadership role within aerospace, defense, or high-technology sectors A strong sense of urgency, with the ability to make tough decisions in a technical environment Demonstrated success managing large, complex, multi-disciplinary programs with annual budgets >$100M Extensive experience in aerospace program management, subcontracts and procurement, personnel management, aircraft systems, aircraft operations, launch vehicle integration, and ground systems Proven track record of technical leadership, including oversight of subcontractors and prototype/low-rate production Advanced risk management expertise and experience with classified programs Exceptional facilitation, negotiation, and executive communication skills Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities Ability to obtain and maintain a TS (Top Secret) security clearance Demonstrated ability to lead in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and drive organizational change Preferred Airbreathing propulsion technology and hypersonic vehicle development experience Experience working directly with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and major defense contractors Air-launch, launch vehicle, and/or aircraft integration program experience Large transport category or military aircraft operations experience PMP, PgMP, or equ