Director of Programs - Indianapolis

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers mission critical needs and requirements. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front to enable successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value-add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and to our government and commercial customers. Kratos has established a substantial presence in Indiana and the growth of those programs is driving the need for a Director of Programs that will drive our business into further expansion into the Indiana market.

The Director of Programs is responsible for development, strategy, and execution of growth initiatives that Kratos has in the Indiana market. This individual will be directly responsible for stakeholder engagement, partnering, strategy and execution for new technology programs that align across the entire Kratos portfolio of technologies and businesses. Workforce development programs will be an early primary focus, so the candidate should demonstrate the ability to identify the skills and technical knowledge necessary for successful execution of Kratos programs. Responsibilities comprise assisting all aspects of standing up a new office in Indianapolis and help establishing Kratos presence across the state with existing and new programs. The candidate will provide guidance and recommendations to Kratos Indiana leadership and overall Company executive leadership regarding new and existing growth opportunities and accompanying execution strategies.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Business and program development
• Technology strategy development
• Technology program execution
• Marketing/Branding
• Recruiting/workforce development
• University engagement
• Community college engagement and custom training program development

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist with Company product portfolio business strategy to ensure execution of Company business plan for growth and profit
• Build and manage a diverse portfolio of technology growth programs that support all Kratos Indiana initiatives
• Build teaming relationships to develop technology programs that lead to new products and services for the Kratos portfolio.
• Represents the company at conferences and other marketing events that promote the expertise and capabilities of the company.
• Conducts briefings for senior staff, customers, and prospective customer representatives.
• Fosters and promotes ethical conduct and personal integrity in the workplace.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or science-related field.
• Master of Science (or equivalent) degree in engineering or science-related field, production, or business-related area.
• Experience related to technology program development and execution
• 10 or more years of progressive experience in the aerospace and defense industry managing large and complex projects where excellent contract performance and employee management skills have been demonstrated.
• Initiative-based leader Driven and continuous improvement mindset with a very strong desire to be first to market.
• Visionary - must be able to see the addressable market, develop the market roadmap in Kratos best interest, and lead detailed planning activities to chase the market. Must be able to communicate this vision to the team, to leadership, and to key stakeholders. Must be able to break it down into actionable tasks that the supporting cast can execute to ultimately realize the vision.