Position Description & QualificationsDiscover your next opportunity as
OperationsVice President of Defense Programs at Serco. This executive leadership position is responsible for the strategic direction, operational performance, financial success, and growth of a major Department of Defense portfolio. The Vice President leads a large, geographically dispersed workforce supporting U.S. Navy and Department of Defense customers while ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and delivery of business objectives.
Must have an active U.S. Department of War (DoW) Secret security clearance.In this role, you will provide executive leadership for a portfolio exceeding $150M+ in annual revenue and a workforce of more than 360 employees worldwide. You will collaborate closely with customers, industry partners, and senior Serco leadership to drive business growth, strengthen customer relationships, and advance strategic priorities. This position requires a proven leader with experience managing complex operations, leading organizational change, developing high-performing teams, and delivering and growing business results in a dynamic defense environment.
This is a high-impact executive role offering the opportunity to shape strategy, drive operational performance, expand customer relationships, and contribute directly to Serco's continued growth and success.
This position is located in Washington, D.C.In this role, you will:
- Lead the strategic growth and operational performance of a diverse Department of Defense portfolio with annual revenue exceeding $150M and a worldwide workforce of more than 360 employees.
- Provide executive leadership and direction to Business Directors responsible for the successful execution of multiple U.S. Navy Acquisition, Modernization, and In-Service Maintenance programs and contracts.
- Establish and execute business strategies, objectives, and operational priorities that support company growth, customer satisfaction, and long-term business objectives.
- Maintain accountability for portfolio financial performance, including revenue, profitability, forecasting, cost management, and achievement of annual business goals.
- Drive development of innovative, technology-enabled solutions that address customer requirements across diverse mission areas, delivery models, and contract vehicles.
- Serve as an executive liaison with senior government stakeholders, industry partners, and Serco leadership to strengthen customer relationships and identify growth opportunities.
- Spearhead business development activities, pipeline expansion, capture support, and organic growth initiatives across the Department of Defense market.
- Develop and execute workforce, talent, and succession strategies to ensure organizational effectiveness, leadership continuity, and future growth.
- Lead organizational change and continuous improvement initiatives in support of evolving customer, market, and business requirements.
- Ensure effective management of operational, financial, contractual, and programmatic risks while maintaining high standards of performance, quality, and customer satisfaction.
- Partner with executive leadership to develop objectives, policies, and strategies that support Serco's corporate vision and business goals.
To be successful in this role, you must have:
- An active DoW Secret security clearance.
- A Master's degree in Business, Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- or a Bachelor's degree plus additional 5 years of relevant experience.
- 12 years of progressively responsible leadership experience supporting Department of Defense programs, including responsibility for business operations, financial performance, customer engagement, and organizational leadership.
- To demonstrate success leading large, complex organizations and delivering operational excellence across multiple programs, contracts, or business functions.
- Experience managing large-scale business operations with direct responsibility for financial performance, revenue growth, and profit and loss accountability.
- A proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams while fostering an inclusive, results-oriented culture.
- A strong strategic planning, business development, and customer relationship management experience within the Department of Defense market.
- Exceptional communication and executive leadership skills with the ability to engage effectively with senior government customers, industry partners, and corporate leadership.
- The ability to travel up to 25%.
Preferred Qualifications
- DAWIA, PMP, or other relevant professional certifications.
- Experience supporting U.S. Navy customers and acquisition, modernization, sustainment, or mission support programs.
- Experience managing large, geographically dispersed workforces and complex contract portfolios.
Take this opportunity to join a high-performing team, advance your career, and make a real difference supporting America's Navy. Join the Serco team today!
