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RegularJob Description
Summary
Washington Operations Director Sr., – Department of Defense and Executive Branch will serve as a primary liaison between AV and key decision-makers within the DoD and the Executive Branch. This pivotal role will involve developing and implementing strategies to advocate for AV’s interests, shape policy discussions, and influence procurement decisions. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience working with DoD and Executive Branch officials, a deep understanding of defense policy, budget, and acquisition processes, and exceptional communication skills. The position is a direct report to the Vice President, Government Relations.
Position Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute comprehensive government affairs strategies to advance AV interests within the Department of Defense and the Executive Branch.
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with senior officials, including civilian and military leaders, within the DoD and the Executive Branch, fostering trust and credibility with key decision-makers.
- Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments, budget priorities, and procurement initiatives within the DoD and the Executive Branch, providing insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Lead advocacy efforts to promote AV’s products and capabilities to relevant DoD agencies and Executive Branch offices, positioning AV as a trusted partner and supplier.
- Represent AV in meetings, briefings, and other engagements with DoD and Executive Branch officials, effectively articulating the company's positions and addressing concerns.
- Collaborate closely with business development and business segment teams to align Pentagon and Executive Branch efforts with business objectives and support strategic initiatives.
- Track and manage key initiatives and opportunities within the DoD and the Executive Branch, coordinating cross-functional teams to pursue and secure business opportunities.
- Provide guidance and support to senior leadership on policy issues, regulatory compliance, and government relations strategies, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging issues within the defense sector, identifying opportunities and risks for AV and developing proactive responses.
- Support preparation of annual strategic plans, including AV’s Government Relations Strategy
- Support research and analysis on the geostrategic and military threat environment, DoD and international defense investments and budget trends
- Prepare presentation materials and analysis for senior management meetings, board meetings, conferences and other outside meetings
Special Requirements:
- U.S. citizenship
- SECRET Security Clearance (eligible for TS/SCI)
- 10% travel
Qualifications:
- Advanced degree in political science, public policy, business administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in senior government affairs, public policy, or related roles, specifically within or with the Department of Defense and the Executive Branch.
- Proven track record of successfully engaging with senior officials within the DoD and the Executive Branch, influencing policy decisions and procurement outcomes.
- In-depth knowledge of defense policy, acquisition processes, and budget priorities, with the ability to analyze and interpret complex legislative and regulatory issues.
- Strong network of contacts within the Department of Defense, including familiarity with key agencies, offices, and decision-makers.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey complex concepts clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing.
- Demonstrated leadership and strategic planning abilities, with the capacity to navigate complex organizational structures and drive results.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing competing priorities and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to work in an office environment (Constant)
- Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)
The salary range for this role is:
$210,803 - $316,205 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.
ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A “U.S. person” according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit:
http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits
. We also encourage you to review our company website at
http://www.avinc.com
to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
Who We Are
Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.
Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.
What We Do
Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.
AeroVironment Incorporated is an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V and works in compliance with both federal and state laws. We are committed to the concept regarding Equal Employment opportunity. Qualified candidates will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition nor disability, genetics, veteran and all others that may apply.
ITAR
U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.
