Defense Acquisition Lead & Innovation Strategist

MITRE; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 157,000 - 236,000; Full time

Job summary

MITRE is seeking a senior leader to advance national defense acquisition reform and modernization, focusing on DoD processes, emerging technologies, and acquisition policy. The role supports executive sponsors and government officials to shape strategic initiatives within the Missile Defense Agency framework and across FF RDCs.

The qualified candidate will influence policy, drive collaboration with industry and academia, and provide authoritative guidance on acquisition reform while coordinating

Qualifications

• Typically requires a minimum of 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 8 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 5 years’ experience.
• Broad exposure and significant roles across the DoW’s acquisition environment, including the innovation ecosystem.
• Possession of an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) certification at a minimum of Level II in Program Management (PM), or equivalent DAWIA or FAC-C, FAC-COR, or FAC-P/PM certification, demonstrating validated proficiency in defense acquisition principles, program execution, and compliance or on track to achieve
• Track record of providing successful thought leadership in applying, teaching, or leading defense acquisition reform or modernization.
• Experience building coalitions and communities that span multiple organizations across government and the private sector.
• Strong critical thinking, analytic, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in team settings across technical and organizational boundaries to achieve mission outcomes.
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective verbal and written communication.

Responsibilities

• Effectively engage and motivate sponsors, stakeholders, and the enterprise on acquisition modernization and agility topics.
• Provide subject matter expertise on DoW and/or US federal civilian acquisition practices, including OT authorities and FAR/ITAR knowledge.
• Develop and propose innovative strategies, policies, and processes to improve acquisition outcomes.
• Contribute with impact as part of integrated product teams to transition emerging technologies and prototypes.
• Strategically communicate internally and externally on key issues related to defense acquisition.
• Build and manage relationships between sponsors, MITRE, and other stakeholders.
• Increase collaboration and coordination on acquisition reform across policy, practice, and academia.

Job description

MITRE is seeking a senior leader to advance national defense acquisition reform and modernization, focusing on DoD processes, emerging technologies, and acquisition policy. The role supports executive sponsors and government officials to shape strategic initiatives within the Missile Defense Agency framework and across FF RDCs.

The qualified candidate will influence policy, drive collaboration with industry and academia, and provide authoritative guidance on acquisition reform while coordinating