Detroit Defense is seeking to lead strategy, development, and execution of autonomous systems within their defense portfolio, ensuring alignment with Department of Defense (DoD) priorities, customer mission needs, and company growth objectives.
Requirements
- Deep knowledge of autonomous systems, AI/ML applications, and relevant DoD modernization priorities.
- Demonstrated experience managing the lifecycle of complex defense products or systems.
- Proven track record of business growth, capture strategy, and customer engagement with DoD organizations.
- Strong financial acumen with P&L management experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Computer Science, Business, or related field;
- 12+ years of experience in defense, aerospace, or autonomy-related industries, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Active Secret Security clearance or ability to obtain required.
Responsibilities
- Product Line Leadership: Define and own the strategic roadmap for the Autonomy PLM portfolio, ensuring alignment with customer requirements, defense acquisition priorities, and corporate strategy.
- Lifecycle Management: Oversee product lifecycle activities from concept development, requirements definition, design, test, production, sustainment, and eventual obsolescence.
- Program Execution: Partner with engineering, operations, supply chain, and business development to ensure successful program delivery—on schedule, within budget, and to performance standards.
- Innovation & Growth: Identify emerging technologies, partnerships, and market opportunities in autonomy and AI/ML to advance the product line’s competitiveness.
- Compliance: Ensure adherence to all defense industry regulations, including ITAR, FAR/DFARS, export control, and cybersecurity requirements.
- Talent Development: Build and lead a high-performing PLM team; mentor and develop talent across technical and business functions.
- Customer Engagement: Act as the primary interface with DoD customers, industry partners, and internal stakeholders to capture needs, shape requirements, and position the business for long-term growth.
Other
- Travel: This position requires approximately 50% travel, primarily for meetings and engagements if based outside of the Detroit area.
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Computer Science, Business, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- 12+ years of experience in defense, aerospace, or autonomy-related industries, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Active Secret Security clearance or ability to obtain required.
