Associate Director, Contracts (Top Secret) {D}

ARKA Group L.P. (“ARKA”) is an advanced technologies company serving the U.S. military, intelligence community, and commercial space industry delivering next-generation solutions to support the national security space enterprise. Built on more than six decades of excellence, ARKA brings modern approaches and a culture of innovation to the challenges of today.

Join the ARKA team to learn how Beyond Begins Here. Discover your next career opportunity now!

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director, Contracts with an active Top Secret or TS/SCI U.S. Government security clearance. In this position, you will be responsible for leading a team of contracts professionals across a diverse portfolio of product lines in the Aerospace and Defense industry. 

We offer generous relocation benefits for eligible candidates.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a group of contracts professionals at the Danbury Mission Technologies location in Danbury, CT with a full range of management responsibilities to include resource planning, staffing, budget, employee training and development, and performance management
• Oversee contract lifecycle management - pursuit, bids, proposals, negotiations, award, execution, and closeout
• Review, draft, and negotiate complex agreements, including Firm Fixed Price, Fixed Price Incentive Fee, Cost Plus Award Fee, Cost Plus Incentive Fee, Cost Plus Fixed Fee, Time and Materials and hybrid contract types with the U.S. Government and prime contractors; non-disclosure agreements; and other business agreements
• Supervise Contracts Managers’ review, analyses, risk assessment, and negotiation of contract terms and conditions
• Assess and advise company personnel on the FAR, DFARS, and other agency supplements and commercial contract terms and conditions
• Interface and coordinate with U.S. Government Contracting Officers, prime contractor procurement representatives, and other customer personnel to establish and maintain business relationships, facilitate discussions, engage in negotiations, serve as a liaison, etc.
• Work with the International Trade Compliance Department, and others, to ensure compliance with import/export laws and regulations
• Implement best practices in company-wide contracting practices and assist with drafting and implementing policies, procedures, and training to support compliance with contracting requirements
• Oversee contract data input/entry into SAP

Required Qualifications:

• BS or BA in an applicable field (business, legal, etc.)
• 10+ years contracts management experience with U.S. Government contracts in the Defense and Aerospace industry
• Previous management/leadership experience
• Experience leading major contract terms and condition negotiations
• Ability to multi-task in a dynamic environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI U.S. Government security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• JD
• Previous contracts management experience with a major U.S. Government defense contractor
• Familiarity with FAR/DFARS data rights and other intellectual property issues
• Previous commercial contracting experience
• Experience with SAP or other ERP systems

Location: Danbury, CT

Located in beautiful Fairfield County, Danbury offers a diverse economy, wonderful parks, cultural attractions, an impressive mix of private and public educational institutions and a vibrant arts scene. Our facility is nestled among a remarkable selection of communities to call home all with varying price points to fit many different budgets. We’re close to New York City, Boston, and other major cities – great for day trips and weekend getaways. Our lovely seasons along with award-winning institutions, colleges, cultural events, and a genuine sense of community brings a diverse population to the beautiful state of Connecticut!

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive medical/vision/dental insurance packages
• Company contributions to qualified HSA accounts
• 401k retirement plan with industry leading company contributions
• 3 weeks of vacation accrual per year plus time off for sick leave and unscheduled life events
• 13 paid holidays
• Upfront tuition assistance for approved degree programs
• Annual bonus program based on company and employee performance
• Company paid life insurance, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term disability insurance
• 4 weeks paid Parental Leave
• Employee assistance program (EAP)

EHS/Environmental Requirements:

This job operates in a professional office environment.