Sr Director, Program Operations

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.  

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.  

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.  

We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Senior Director, Program Operations

Position Overview

The Senior Director of Program Operations is responsible for defining and executing the strategic vision for program management across the enterprise. This executive position leads the development of program management as a core organizational capability, directly influencing business outcomes through portfolio optimization, enterprise resource allocation, and cross-functional leadership. The role shapes enterprise-wide program governance frameworks, drives executive decision-making processes, and ensures alignment between program execution and corporate strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Define and implement the program management strategy aligned with corporate objectives and long-term business plans
• Establish governance frameworks, decision-making protocols, and escalation paths for all strategic programs
• Drive executive-level portfolio optimization decisions to maximize organizational ROI and strategic impact
• Serve as the executive sponsor for critical, high-visibility programs with significant business impact
• Develop and oversee the program management function as a strategic organizational capability
• Build and execute comprehensive strategies across multiple business areas/functions
• Make strategic decisions critical to organizational performance with significant short and long-term impact

Enterprise Resource Management & Financial Oversight

• Direct resource allocation strategies across all business units to optimize program delivery capabilities
• Partner with C-suite executives to secure necessary resources and funding for strategic initiatives
• Establish portfolio-level financial governance models and capital allocation frameworks
• Implement advanced portfolio analytics to drive investment decisions and resource prioritization
• Lead strategic workforce planning for program management capabilities across the organization
• Demonstrate superior financial acumen in managing large-scale budgets and investment portfolios
• Ensure accountability for on-cost and on-schedule delivery across multiple programs with consistent focus on value creation

Organizational Capability Development

• Build and lead a high-performing organization of program management professionals
• Establish the program management career architecture, competency models, and succession planning
• Create the strategic vision for program management methodologies, tools, and technology platforms
• Develop executive-level program management talent and capabilities across the enterprise
• Partner with executive leadership to embed program management excellence in organizational culture
• Lead transformational organizational changes and drive cultural shifts as a catalyst for change
• Uphold and model company values; consistently hold others accountable to values

Business Performance & Risk Management

• Define enterprise-level KPIs and performance measurement frameworks for program success
• Lead executive-level program reviews and strategic portfolio assessments
• Implement enterprise risk management frameworks for program portfolios
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance program delivery capabilities
• Establish and oversee program management centers of excellence that define best practices
• Apply expert-level knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and best practices
• Accountable for meeting financial plans, goals and schedules across the program management portfolio

Executive Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary program management advisor to C-suite executives and the Board
• Lead executive steering committees for enterprise-wide strategic initiatives
• Represent the organization to external stakeholders, industry groups, and strategic partners
• Build and maintain executive relationships across all business functions
• Influence organizational strategy through program management insights and performance data
• Demonstrate superior communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence at executive and board levels
• Regularly interact with internal and external executive leadership to drive strategic initiatives

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Management, Engineering or related field (Bachelor's degree with equivalent executive experience accepted)
• 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in program/portfolio management
• 10+ years in executive leadership roles with enterprise-wide responsibility
• Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and delivering complex enterprise-wide strategic initiatives
• Demonstrated experience building and leading program management as an organizational capability
• Executive-level certifications: PfMP, PgMP, or equivalent executive program management credentials
• Experience reporting directly to C-suite executives and presenting to Boards of Directors
• Deep expertise in organizational design, change management, and capability development
• Exceptional executive presence, communication skills, and strategic thinking abilities
• Demonstrated ability to influence across organizational boundaries and drive executive decisions
• Responsible for one or more components of a division, program or function at a group level or a key enterprise focus area

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or advanced degree from top-tier institution
• Experience leading program management transformations in multiple industries
• International program leadership experience across diverse business cultures
• Published thought leadership in program management or related disciplines
• Experience leading large-scale digital transformation or enterprise change initiatives

Board-level advisory experience on strategic program governance

Pay Range:

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. 

 
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.