Vice President Programs

Company Description

Esh-Tech Systems is a pioneering defense technology company specializing in innovative directed energy Counter-UAS solutions. Esh-Tech Systems has developed a groundbreaking laser architecture capable of mitigating drone swarm threats efficiently and cost-effectively. Backed by years of intensive research and development, the company's technology is validated for outdoor applications. We are at the forefront of providing next-generation defense capabilities to address critical global security challenges.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role based in Modiin Israel, for a Vice President of Programs. The Vice President of Programs is a senior executive accountable for the end-to-end delivery of all company programs and systems engineering initiatives. Reporting directly to the CEO and serving as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, this role drives strategic planning, execution, and governance of Esh-Tech's project portfolio — ensuring every program is delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. The VP Programs directly manages the Program Managers and Systems Engineering teams, and is the single point of accountability for delivery excellence across the organization

Key responsibilities

Program Leadership & Delivery

•     Own end-to-end delivery accountability for all programs from initiation through closure.

•     Establish program governance frameworks, delivery methodologies, and quality standards.

•     Lead integrated program planning; ensure cross-functional alignment on scope, schedule, and resources.

•     Monitor program health, proactively identify risks, and drive timely resolution.

•     Report portfolio status and KPIs to the CEO.

Systems Engineering Oversight

•     Provide strategic direction and leadership to the Systems Engineering organization.

•     Ensure systems engineering practices meet quality standards required for program success.

•     Align systems engineering capabilities and roadmap with program requirements.

Budget & Financial Management

•     Own the full project and programs budget — forecasting, planning, and variance management.

•     Develop annual budget proposals for review by the CEO and CFO.

•     Monitor cost performance; ensure earned value and financial discipline across all programs.

Stakeholder Management

•     Serve as the senior customer-facing executive for key accounts in Israel and internationally — leading strategic meetings, program reviews, and relationship development with defense and government clients.

•     Partner with Sales, R&D, Finance, and Operations to align program commitments with business priorities.

People Leadership

•     Build, mentor, and retain a high-performing team of Program Managers and Systems Engineering leaders.

•     Define the organizational structure and staffing model for the Programs function.

•     Establish clear performance expectations and foster professional growth.

•     Champion a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous learning.

Qualifications

Required

•     15+ years of progressive experience in program management, engineering, or technical leadership.

•     7+ years in a senior leadership capacity managing multi-disciplinary teams.

•     Demonstrated track record of delivering large, complex programs on time and within budget.

•     Strong financial acumen with hands-on experience managing multi-million dollar program budgets.

•     Deep understanding of systems engineering principles and lifecycle management.

•  Proven ability to operate at the executive level and influence cross-functional stakeholders.

Preferred

•     Experience owning or co-owning a P&L, with direct accountability for revenue, cost, and margin performance.

•     PMP, PgMP, or equivalent program management certification.

•     Experience in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology programs.

•     MBA or advanced degree in Engineering, Business, or a related discipline.

What we offer

•     Very Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.

•     A senior leadership role in a high-impact, mission-driven Defense & Space company.

•     Participation in all executive forums and strategic decisions.

•     Work on one-of-a-kind company at the forefront of Israeli defense technology.