Director, Security & Resiliency Programs

MassChallenge, Inc.; Dallas (TX); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

MassChallenge in Dallas–Fort Worth seeks a Director of Security & Resiliency to lead delivery of the Security & Resiliency portfolio, including NATO DIANA, Air Force Labs, and Traction programs. The role partners with government, defense, corporate, and research entities to drive outcomes and ensure quality across multiple concurrent programs.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in program management, deep defense ecosystem knowledge, and a proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and external

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in project or program management.
• Experience in accelerator operations, recruitment, and supporting startups or small businesses.
• Knowledge of the U.S. defense ecosystem and acquisition practices, including programs such as SBIR/STTR, AFWERX, or DIU.
• Strong leadership, people management, strategic thinking, and judgment.
• Willingness to engage government, defense, business, and academic leaders in networking settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end delivery of the S&R portfolio, including NATO DIANA, Air Force Labs, and Traction Security & Resiliency, from design to delivery and finale events.
• Represent MassChallenge with stakeholders to establish communication and ensure quality control of program delivery.
• Deliver dual‑use curriculum elements and ensure contractual deliverables, timelines, and reporting.
• Own development and collection of KPIs and partner reporting to measure success and inform iterations.
• Contribute to broader organizational initiatives and support additional accelerator programs as needed.
• Serve as MassChallenge's voice in the Dallas–Fort Worth and Texas defense and security ecosystem at events and panels.
• Build a network of government, defense primes, investors, researchers, and dual‑use founders for deal flow and partnerships.
• Recruit and onboard experts and mentors in collaboration with Partnerships and Network teams.
• Manage the S&R program delivery team with coaching and feedback.

Skills

Program management

Stakeholder management

Leadership

DoD/defense ecosystem knowledge

Job description

MassChallenge in Dallas–Fort Worth seeks a Director of Security & Resiliency to lead delivery of the Security & Resiliency portfolio, including NATO DIANA, Air Force Labs, and Traction programs. The role partners with government, defense, corporate, and research entities to drive outcomes and ensure quality across multiple concurrent programs.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in program management, deep defense ecosystem knowledge, and a proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and external