Strategic Planner

Theascendancygroup; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A defense consulting company in Tampa, Florida is seeking a Strategic Planner to develop and execute long-range plans integrating Operations in the Information Environment. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of strategic planning experience in influence operations and a degree in a relevant field. Key responsibilities include designing OIE plans, collaborating with various military and agency partners, and providing counsel to senior leaders. Candidates must have TS/SCI clearance eligibility.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in influence operations or IO.
• SAM / SAW Graduate.
• Experience with Combatant Commands or Joint Staff.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement multi-phase OIE Plans aligned with Joint Doctrine.
• Collaborate with J39, J5, J2, and coalition forces.
• Provide strategic counsel on OIE use for operational effects.

Skills

Strategic planning

Analytical skills

Research skills

Forecasting skills

Proficiency in strategic communication

Ability to synthesize complex data

Education

Degree in International Affairs

Degree in Strategic Studies

Job description

Strategic Planner

The Ascendancy Group’s Mission

To be the unequaled provider of special operations forces (SOF) and Intelligence Community focused technical, service, and training-based solutions.

Overview

The Strategic Planner position is a full-time position developing and executing long-range, theater-level plans that integrate Operations in the Information Environment (OIE) influence activities.

This position is contingent upon contract award.

Security Requirement

TS/SCI or TS w/SCI Eligibility

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Designs and implements multi-phase OIE Plans aligned with Joint Doctrine (JP 3-4), national strategies, and GCC priorities.
• Integrates Information- Forces (MISO, MILDEC, OPSEC, Cyber, EW, PA, CA) into strategic and operational plans to shape the information environment.
• Conducts PMESII-PT and DIMEFIL assessments to evaluate the operational environment and inform strategic planning.
• Collaborates with J39, J5, J2, Joint Staff, interagency partners (e.g., DOS, USAID), and coalition forces to ensure unity of effort and message.
• Drafts OIE annexes, strategic roadmaps, concept papers, and briefing materials for senior leadership.
• Defines and tracks Measures of Performance (MOP) and Measures of Effectiveness (MOE) to evaluate campaign success and inform adjustments.
• Provides strategic counsel to senior leaders on the use of OIE to achieve long-term operational and strategic effects.
• Monitors global and regional trends in the information environment and adversary influence operations to inform proactive planning.

Required Qualifications:

• Degree in International Affairs, Strategic Studies, or related field
• Strategic planning experience, with at least 5 years in IO or influence operations
• SAM / SAW Graduate
• Experience supporting Combatant Commands or Joint Staff
• Strong analytical, research, and forecasting skills
• Proficiency in strategic communication and briefing development
• Ability to synthesize complex data into actionable strategies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience at a major command, combatant command, or service-level HQ (USCENTCOM AOR preferred)
• J39 experience in strategic planning, policy development, or interagency coordination
• Familiarity with national security documents (e.g., NSS, NDS, NMS, UCP)
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional planning teams and influence senior decision‑makers

The Ascendancy Group (TAG) was founded on and thrives based on relationships, reputation, and trust. We are passionate about everything we do. One hundred percent of our government‑focused teammates are former members of the Department of Defense or the Intelligence Community who still believe in supporting our nation. We offer like‑minded individuals the opportunity to continue working in small teams on unique and challenging problem sets that further our nation's security. To expedite your application, provide the following information when you apply:

• Do you have an active TS/SCI Clearance? If not, are you eligible for one?
• Total number of years professional experience
• List the highest degree earned and the field of study
• List the second highest degree earned and the field of study
• Provide your experience as it relates to this role. Please be specific.

If you possess the experience, qualifications and drive required for this position, please APPLY NOW for consideration!