Director, Executive Compensation

Leidos Holding • $139K — $251K *
Finance & Insurance
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 12+ years in compensation, especially executive compensation.
  • Experience supporting a Compensation Committee and preparing proxy/CD&A disclosures for public companies.
  • Strong knowledge of SEC rules on executive compensation and equity plan design.
  • Proficient in executive compensation benchmarking tools and survey data analysis.
  • Excellent communication skills, particularly in preparing board-level materials.

Responsibilities

  • Design and manage executive compensation programs, including salary and incentive plans.
  • Lead annual compensation planning cycles with market benchmarking and pay recommendations.
  • Coordinate with Stock Programs on equity plan operations and grant strategies.
  • Provide a high-touch service model for senior leaders regarding compensation and governance.
  • Prepare materials for the Compensation Committee, including performance analyses and benchmarking.
  • Collaborate with Legal on compliance and governance documentation.
  • Conduct market analyses to inform pay decisions and advise senior leadership.

Benefits

  • Flexible work schedule with onsite requirements two days a week.
  • Opportunity to lead and mentor a high-performing compensation team.
  • Engagement with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
  • Access to professional development opportunities in compensation and governance.
Full Job Description

The Director, Executive Compensation leads the design, administration, and governance of Leidos' executive and non-employee director compensation programs. This role serves as the primary subject-matter expert on executive pay strategy, equity plan design, regulatory compliance, and Compensation Committee support, partnering closely with the VP, Compensation, senior HR leadership, Legal, and Finance to ensure programs are competitive, compliant, and aligned with company performance and shareholder interests.

Key Responsibilities

Executive Compensation Program Management

  • Design and administer base salary, annual incentive, and long-term incentive (equity) programs for the executive population (Section 16 officers and other senior leaders)
  • Lead annual executive compensation planning cycles, including market benchmarking, pay recommendations, and merit/incentive funding
  • Partner closely with the Stock Programs team to align on equity plan operations, ensuring seamless coordination on grant strategy and vesting/settlement processes
  • Own the end-to-end executive compensation experience with the compensation function, establishing a white-glove service model that makes this role the single go-to resource for senior leaders across pay, equity, and governance matters

Board & Committee Governance

  • Serve as a key preparer for the Compensation Committee materials, including pay-for-performance analyses, peer group benchmarking, and plan design proposals
  • Partner with Legal and the Corporate Secretary's office on committee meeting logistics, calendars, and documentation
  • Draft and maintain committee charters, governance guidelines, and related policies as they pertain to compensation

Regulatory & Disclosure Compliance

  • Partner with Legal and the Corporate Secretary’s office in preparation of the Compensation Discussion & Analysis (CD&A) and related proxy statement disclosures, ensuring compliance with SEC rules
  • Monitor and apply evolving regulatory requirements (SEC, IRS Section 162(m)/409A, ISS/Glass Lewis guidelines, say-on-pay considerations)
  • Manage clawback policy administration and other governance-related compensation policies

Market Analysis & Advisory

  • Conduct competitive market analyses using survey data and peer group benchmarking to inform pay decisions
  • Translate data and insights into clear, actionable recommendations for senior leaders
  • Advise senior leadership and the CHRO on executive offers, promotions, retention arrangements, and severance/change-in-control provisions
  • Partner with outside compensation consultants and legal counsel as needed

Cross-Functional Leadership

  • Partner with Finance on compensation expense forecasting, accounting treatment, and budget planning
  • Collaborate with Legal on employment agreements, executive offer letters, and severance arrangements
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing executive compensation team, fostering operational excellence, strategic thinking, and strong client support
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree and 12+ years of relevant compensation experience, including significant experience in executive compensation; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Demonstrated experience supporting a Compensation Committee and preparing proxy/CD&A disclosures at a publicly traded company
  • Strong knowledge of SEC executive compensation disclosure rules, equity plan design, and relevant tax/regulatory frameworks
  • Experience with executive compensation benchmarking tools and survey data
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing board-level materials
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (MBA) or professional certification (CCP, CECP)
  • Experience in a government services, defense, or technology contracting environment
  • Prior people management experience
  • Familiarity with Workday or similar HRIS/compensation planning tools

The ideal candidate should be within commuting distance to Reston, and able to work onsite two days per week.

Original Posting:September 29, 2026

Pay Range:Pay Range $139,100.00 - $251,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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