VP, Loitering Munitions Systems — Growth & Strategy

avav; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 250,000 - 390,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

medical

dental vision

401K with company matching

a 9/80 work schedule

a paid holiday shutdown

Job summary

AeroVironment in Southern California seeks a visionary VP to lead the Loitering Munitions Systems Business Unit. This senior executive will drive growth, oversee end-to-end programs, and ensure operational excellence across development, production, and sustainment for national security objectives.

The role requires deep aerospace/defense experience, leadership of large P&L organizations, and the ability to align product innovation with evolving threat environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years in defense/aerospace/tech with loitering munitions or related systems.
• 7–10 years of progressive people leadership including senior leaders.
• Proven success leading high-growth P&L units or portfolios.
• Deep knowledge of DoD procurement processes and international defense markets.
• Established relationships with senior defense officials and stakeholders.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams spanning engineering, operations, PM, and business development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the LMS strategic vision and long-term growth roadmap.
• Own full P&L for the LMS Unit including revenue, margin, and investments.
• Deliver the Annual Operating Plan with revenue growth and cost discipline.
• Lead product strategy and roadmap to maintain differentiation in loitering munitions.
• Oversee development, production, and sustainment with cost, schedule, and quality focus.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS and internal policies.
• Build relationships with customers, defense agencies, and primes.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required.

Skills

Loitering munitions

P&L leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Regulatory compliance ITAR/EAR

Mission and defense domain

Education

MBA / MS or related

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or business

Job description

AeroVironment in Southern California seeks a visionary VP to lead the Loitering Munitions Systems Business Unit. This senior executive will drive growth, oversee end-to-end programs, and ensure operational excellence across development, production, and sustainment for national security objectives.

The role requires deep aerospace/defense experience, leadership of large P&L organizations, and the ability to align product innovation with evolving threat environments.