Defense Innovation Program Leader
If you're interested in leading high-impact defense innovation programs and turning breakthrough technologies into real-world solutions, this is the role for you!
Who We Are :
- FedTech is a group of entrepreneurially minded people on a mission to unlock the benefits of technology.
- We believe in the value of deep tech and its positive impact on the world, aspiring to democratize access to it for entrepreneurs and professionals around the world.
- We are venture builders who thrive at the intersection of US entrepreneurship, breakthrough technologies, and mission-driven organizations.
- Since 2015, we have successfully driven deep tech ventures with individuals, companies, universities, and government agencies to stay at the bleeding edge of innovation.
What You'll Do :
You will lead a portfolio of Army innovation programs and strategic initiatives within the broader Defense and Commercial Innovation sector. The role includes managing and developing a high-performing team, driving business growth, and cultivating partnerships, as well as engaging a broad network of entrepreneurs, inventors, and industry leaders to advance defense-focused innovation goals.
Key Responsibilities :
Team Leadership & Program Execution :Lead and develop the team responsible for designing, building, and executing custom white-glove accelerator and commercialization programs for federal and private clients, while managing day-to-day programming, client engagement, and stakeholder relations.
Oversee team performance, providing training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to build a high-performing, collaborative group.Serve as a subject matter expert and presenter on technology commercialization, venture creation, and lean innovation, ensuring programs deliver strategic impact and measurable outcomes.Program Growth & Business Development :Develop and implement strategic plans to strengthen and expand the innovation ecosystem through accelerators, startup studios, and related programs.
Drive business growth with new clients while expanding on-contract work.Financial & Operational Management :Oversee team-level program budgets, revenue, and P&L, ensuring financial stability, profitability, and sustainable growth.
Oversee high-profile initiatives and events, ensuring successful execution of operations.Community & Stakeholder Engagement :Advise and support entrepreneurs and startups through outreach, partnerships, growth opportunities, and community engagement events.
Organize community engagement events connecting innovators, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and investors.Successful candidates will have the following qualifications :
8+ years of experience in the defense industry, with strong familiarity with the government landscape.Experience with accelerator programs or entrepreneurial support organizations, including exposure to technology commercialization is a plus.Experience managing high-performing teams and fostering cross-functional collaboration.Proven track record in managing complex programs efficiently and delivering results on time in fast-paced, dynamic environments.Demonstrated ability to prioritize client needs and align program design and execution with organizational and project objectives.Financial management experience, including forecasting, P&L ownership, and budget oversight is preferred.Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to connect across diverse stakeholder groups.Excellent communication skills, including leading high-level meetings and delivering executive-level presentations on complex topics.Completion of a bachelor's degree.Our Values :
Boldness : We have the fortitude to forge new paths and push beyond our comfort.Unity : We treat our clients, team members, and partners as we would like to be treated - we are one united team.Introspection : We recognize introspection is the necessary ingredient in which self-improvement flourishes.Leadership : We embrace servant leadership - putting the interests of client, team partners, and partners first.Decisiveness : We have a strong bias towards action.Compensation :
Base salary range : $125 - $135kThe salary range listed for this position is based on market data and internal compensation structure. The final compensation package will be determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, and education. This range is not a guarantee of compensation and offers may fall outside this range in exceptional cases.In addition to the base salary, compensation includes performance-based bonus (OTE) and ability to earn equity.A competitive benefits package including 401K with employer match, health / dental / vision plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield, accrued PTO, professional development funds, employer paid disability insurance, parental leave, transportation and wellness reimbursements, amongst others.Location :
DC Area : Hybrid - 3 days in-office at our HQ in Arlington, VA, and 2 days remoteAustin, TX : RemoteHuntsville, AL : RemoteNote : All locations may require up to 20% domestic travel. In the future, hybrid arrangements may be possible in the future for Austin or Huntsville if an office opens locally.
