VP of Defense Programs Operations

Serco; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 260,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Serco Inc. in Washington, DC, seeks an experienced Operations Vice President of Defense Programs to shape strategy, lead a $150M+ portfolio, and manage a 360+ global workforce delivering DoD programs for Navy customers.

The role requires a DoW Secret clearance, a Master’s degree (or BA + 5 years), 12 years of senior leadership, and a proven ability to drive growth, operational excellence, and strong government relations in a dynamic defense environment.

Qualifications

• Active DoW Secret security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Master’s degree in Business, Management, Engineering, or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree + 5 years relevant experience acceptable.
• 12 years of progressively responsible DoD leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead large, complex organizations.
• Experience managing financial performance and growth.
• Strong strategic planning and customer relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic growth and operational performance of a DoD portfolio ($150M+ revenue).
• Provide executive direction to directors overseeing Navy programs and contracts.
• Set strategies and priorities to drive growth, customer satisfaction, and objectives.
• Manage portfolio financials: revenue, profitability, forecasting, costs.
• Develop innovative, technology-enabled solutions addressing customer needs.
• Engage with senior government stakeholders to identify growth opportunities.
• Drive business development, pipeline expansion, and capture activities.
• Develop workforce, talent, and succession strategies for growth.
• Lead change initiatives to align with evolving requirements.
• Mitigate operational, contractual, and program risks while maintaining performance.
• Collaborate with Serco leadership to support corporate goals.

Skills

Leadership

DoD program mgmt

Strategic planning

Executive communication

Business development

Risk management

Talent development

Customer relationships

Education

Master’s degree in Business/Management/Engineering

Bachelor’s degree + 5 years relevant experience

Tools

DAWIA / PMP certifications

Job description

Serco Inc. in Washington, DC, seeks an experienced Operations Vice President of Defense Programs to shape strategy, lead a $150M+ portfolio, and manage a 360+ global workforce delivering DoD programs for Navy customers.

The role requires a DoW Secret clearance, a Master’s degree (or BA + 5 years), 12 years of senior leadership, and a proven ability to drive growth, operational excellence, and strong government relations in a dynamic defense environment.