Senior Director, Aerospace R&D & National Security Strategy

EmergencyMD; Reston (VA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Comprehensive healthcare coverage (med

Dental and vision

Generous paid time off

403(b) retirement plan with company 5%

Disability coverage

Education benefits & professional dev.

Job summary

AIAA is seeking a dynamic Senior Director of R&D and National Security to shape content strategy and drive execution across aerospace R&D and defense initiatives. You will lead flagship forums, recruit executive steering leadership, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance innovation and national security conversations at industry events.

Reporting to the SVP, Events, you will build partnerships with industry leaders, guide content direction, and ensure AIAA remains a trusted

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or aerospace-related field.
• Advanced degree or executive program in business/management is a plus.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in content development, business development, or project management.
• Active security clearance is desired.
• Strong strategic planning, event leadership, and revenue-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; ability to engage senior leaders.
• Public speaking experience with large live audiences.
• Willing to travel for representation at industry events.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute aerospace R&D and national security strategies aligned with industry advancements and member needs.
• Create a strategic roadmap with milestones for growth and leadership in aerospace R&D and national security.
• Establish and nurture key industry relationships to enhance presence in these areas.
• Represent AIAA at industry events, conferences, and discussions on aerospace research and policy.
• Own the content strategy and execution of SciTech and DEFENSE Forums to drive influence and impact.
• Recruit and guide the Forum Guiding Coalition/Executive Steering Committee; shape themes, focus areas, and speakers.
• Lead, mentor the Manager, Content, and collaborate with leadership to drive innovation across products and services.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Content strategy

Relationship building

Public speaking

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Team leadership

Willingness to travel

Security clearance (desired)

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering/science/aerospace

Master's/MBA or executive certificate (plus)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

AIAA is seeking a dynamic Senior Director of R&D and National Security to shape content strategy and drive execution across aerospace R&D and defense initiatives. You will lead flagship forums, recruit executive steering leadership, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance innovation and national security conversations at industry events.

Reporting to the SVP, Events, you will build partnerships with industry leaders, guide content direction, and ensure AIAA remains a trusted