Sierra Space Careers:

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.

About the Role

Sr Director, Program Operations

About You

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 excell