Senior Program Manager, Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) Growth and Development - GM Defense

Job Description

About GM Defense:

GM Defense delivers integrated vehicles, power and propulsion, and autonomy and connectivity solutions to global defense, security, and government markets. The exceptional reliability of GM Defense’s technologies results from decades of proven performance and billions of dollars spent in independent research and development by its parent, General Motors, a world leader in global design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. For more information, please visit www.gmdefensellc.com.

The Role:

GMD is currently seeking a Senior Program Manager, Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) Growth and Development to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have experience managing automotive programs and products, coupled with expertise in government program execution. Successful candidates thrive in dynamic, ambiguous environments and demonstrate exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making skills with minimal supervision. This individual is highly motivated to identify and seize opportunities, driving meaningful impact in strategic growth areas.

The Senior Program Manager will provide strategic leadership and oversight for all programs within the portfolio, ensuring successful execution across the entire project lifecycle, including pre-award capture activities. This role is accountable for defining and managing the technology roadmap for the current and future family of tactical vehicles and driving development initiatives that align with long-term objectives. Responsibilities include developing comprehensive program plans, managing cost, schedule, and performance, and leading cross-functional teams to deliver results. The position requires proactive risk management, identification of growth opportunities, and continuous improvement in execution. Additionally, the Senior Program Manager will mentor and manage program staff, foster collaboration across engineering, supply chain, finance, and operations, and ensure alignment with customer requirements and organizational goals.

Senior Program Manager roles demand strong leadership and communication skills within matrixed organizations, as they involve coordinating across diverse functions and engaging with multiple levels of management. Exceptional communication skills with customers are critical to building trust, ensuring alignment, and driving program success. The ability to think innovatively, exercise independent judgment, and apply ingenuity to complex challenges is essential for success in this position.

What You'll Do:

·       Program Leadership: Provide strong leadership and guidance to the cross-functional program team, ensuring alignment with program objectives and fostering a culture of excellence and accountability. Manage government and GM Defense program imperatives effectively.

·       Pre-Contract Preparation: Lead the team in developing and implementing strategies to position programs for success prior to award. Activities include resource planning, risk assessment, work breakdown structure development, CDRL planning, start-of-work preparation, and stakeholder engagement.

·       Contract Execution: Coach, lead, and mentor Program Managers within the portfolio to drive successful contract execution. Ensure adherence to cost, schedule, and performance requirements while promoting best practices across teams.

·       Cost Management: Oversee and manage portfolio-level budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement cost-control measures to achieve financial objectives.

·       Performance Accountability: Define and track performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) for your portion of the GM Defense business. Regularly monitor progress and report results to GM leadership.

·       Risk and Opportunity Management: Establish and maintain risk and opportunity management processes across the portfolio to reduce costs and drive revenue growth. Implement proactive mitigation strategies and contingency plans to minimize disruptions.

·       Stakeholder Management and Communication: Communicate and collaborate effectively with internal and external