Defense Strategy and Growth Lead

10+ years of experience in defense strategy, business development, military leadership, or government relations
Deep understanding of DoD operational needs, acquisition pathways, and funding mechanisms
Extensive network across senior military leadership, defense innovation organizations, and prime contractors
Ability to quickly learn and articulate software use cases in autonomous systems, networked operations, and digital infrastructure for military platforms
Strong executive presence, communication skills, and ability to brief senior leaders and decision-makers
Prior executive-level civilian, military and/or industry experience within national security

Develop and execute a defense growth strategy that aligns with company objectives in autonomous mission software, C2, and digital ecosystems for military applications
Build and leverage high-level relationships across the DoD, including service branches, combatant commands, acquisition offices (e.g., PEOs, DARPA, DIU, RCCTO), and major defense contractors
Identify, shape, and pursue new business opportunities through direct engagements, government solicitations (BAAs, OTAs, IDIQs), and strategic partnerships
Educate government and industry stakeholders on the company’s software capabilities and their impact on future multi-domain operations, human-machine teaming, and mission command autonomy
Lead capture efforts for key defense programs, including teaming agreements and proposal development
Collaborate with technical teams to translate customer needs into actionable software requirements and product roadmaps
Represent the company at high-level defense conferences, warfighter exercises, and military technology demonstrations

Experience with defense technology programs related to autonomy, artificial intelligence, software-defined mission systems, or C2 architectures is a plus