Program Manager- Unmanned Systems

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager with a strong technical background to lead complex, multidisciplinary development programs in the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and multirotor domain. In this role, you will serve as the primary interface for customer engagement, translating operational needs into actionable technical plans for internal R&D teams and sub-contractors. You will drive program execution end-to-end, managing work plans, budgets, procurement requirements, and resource allocation to ensure successful delivery.

This role calls for a rare combination of strategic planning, matrix leadership, disciplined execution, and creative problem-solving-along with the willingness to roll up your sleeves and dive into technical details whenever needed.

Responsibilities
End-to-End Ownership: Drive program execution across the full lifecycle-from requirement mapping and concept definition through R&D, integration, field trials, delivery, and customer acceptance.
Stakeholder & Customer Interface: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, sub-contractors, and internal leadership, ensuring transparent communication, expectations alignment, and issue resolution.
Program Planning & Governance: Establish structured execution roadmaps, Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), and management cadences (Integrated Program Team meetings, status reviews, and action tracking).
Matrix Leadership: Lead multidisciplinary technical teams, aligning functional managers around shared goals while delegating clear ownership and accountability.
Resource & Risk Management: Own program budgets, forecasts, resources, schedules, scope changes, and risk mitigation strategies to address capability gaps promptly.
Lifecycle Reviews & Verification: Plan and lead formal design reviews, readiness gates, system integration, field trials, and demonstrations in close collaboration with engineering and operations.
Reporting & Documentation: Maintain an accurate "source of truth" for program data, delivering concise, decision-oriented updates and progress reports to executive leadership.