Space Programs Portfolio Director - Strategic Program Leader

Collins Aerospace; Windsor Locks (CT); On-site; USD 157,000 - 299,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan

Life Insurance

Job summary

Collins Aerospace seeks an Associate Director, Program Management to guide a portfolio of complex Space programs and the PMs responsible for their execution in Windsor Locks, CT. This onsite leadership role blends portfolio oversight with hands-on program execution, focusing on cost, schedule, technical performance, and enterprise-level risks.

You will build executive relationships, support bids, and mentor future leaders across IPTs while delivering on customer commitments and growth objectives.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a University Degree and minimum 12 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 10 years of experience.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in program management, operations, engineering, or aerospace/defense programs.
• Experience leading complex cross‑functional teams in a matrix organization.
• Proven experience managing cost, schedule, technical execution, and customer commitments.
• Experience leading recovery plans, critical‑path execution, and risk mitigation efforts.
• Financial and contract management experience (FFP, CPFF, etc.)

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Program Managers across their full life cycle and build a pipeline of future leadership.
• Support the General Manager with day‑to‑day oversight, strategic priorities, and delivery of commitments.
• Provide clear direction to Integrated Project Teams (IPTs) and align priorities with Space market strategy.
• Influence cross‑functional teams in a matrixed environment and drive timely decisions.
• Lead teams through ambiguity and high‑pressure situations while coaching future leaders.
• Communicate program performance, risks, priorities, and recommendations to executive leadership.

Skills

Program management

Cross-functional leadership

Cost & schedule management

Risk mitigation

Financial management

Education

University degree, 12+ years experience

Advanced degree, 10+ years experience

Job description

Collins Aerospace seeks an Associate Director, Program Management to guide a portfolio of complex Space programs and the PMs responsible for their execution in Windsor Locks, CT. This onsite leadership role blends portfolio oversight with hands-on program execution, focusing on cost, schedule, technical performance, and enterprise-level risks.

You will build executive relationships, support bids, and mentor future leaders across IPTs while delivering on customer commitments and growth objectives.