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Program Manager, Defense Performance Strategy

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Kitman Labs is revolutionizing how the defense industry leverages data to enhance servicemembers’ development, health, and performance. With deep expertise in data science, human performance, and operational strategy, we deliver advanced software solutions that enable the Department of Defense (DoD) to make data-driven decisions that optimize readiness, resilience, and mission success.

As a global company with a legacy of innovation in elite sports, Kitman Labs partners with organizations across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific. We work with premier military units, professional sports leagues, and high-performance organizations to maximize operational effectiveness through intelligent data integration and analytics.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Defense Program Manager to support our rapidly growing Defense Vertical. Reporting to the Director of Defense Performance Strategy, this role is essential to successful client engagements, ensuring seamless project execution, strategic contract management, and operational excellence in complex environments. The ideal candidate will possess a solid military background, proven project management expertise, and experience navigating defense contracts.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Contract Management
Lead the planning, implementation, and oversight of defense-focused projects, ensuring alignment with client expectations and Kitman Labs' strategic objectives.
Effectively manage defense contracts, including reviewing, monitoring, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements.
Prepare and deliver project status reports and documentation to internal stakeholders and defense clients.
Client Engagement & Relationship Management
Serve as the primary point of contact for defense clients, understanding their needs, objectives, and operational constraints.
Foster strong client relationships, ensuring ongoing communication, satisfaction, and client health.
Operational Excellence
Collaborate with cross-functional internal teams (Data Science, Product Development, and Applied Performance) to translate client needs into actionable solutions.
Proactively identify project risks, create mitigation strategies, and ensure timely resolution of issues.
Implement best practices in process improvement and resource optimization to maximize efficiency and impact.
Strategic Support & Complex Environment Navigation
Navigate the complexities of defense environments, effectively collaborating with military stakeholders, partners, and contractors.
Support strategic initiatives and special projects as directed by the Director of Defense Performance Strategy.

Key Qualifications & Experience

5-10 years of experience in project or program management, ideally within a military, defense, or government contracting context.
Demonstrated experience managing and executing defense contracts.
Familiarity with defense procurement, federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), and compliance.
Exceptional organizational skills with proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in dynamic environments.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of engaging confidently with military clients and senior stakeholders.
Proficiency with project management tools and platforms (MS Project, Jira, Smartsheet, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

Previous military service or extensive experience working directly with defense clients.
Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification.
Understanding of software solutions, AI-driven analytics, and human performance platforms within defense applications.
Active or previous security clearance (Secret or TS/SCI preferred).

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is an experienced professional with 5-10 years of relevant experience in managing defense or government projects. They will possess a strong military background, demonstrating an exceptional understanding of defense contract management and regulatory compliance. This candidate will excel in navigating complex operational environments, possess superior organizational and interpersonal skills, and thrive working collaboratively across diverse teams. A proactive problem-solver and strategic thinker, the ideal candidate effectively balances client needs, project execution, and organizational objectives, delivering consistent results in dynamic and challenging situations.

Why Join Kitman Labs?

At Kitman Labs, we are redefining the future of defense performance by bringing best-in-class data analytics to the warfighter. This is an opportunity to shape the future of military human performance, leading a transformational effort that enhances the health, resilience, and effectiveness of the armed forces.

As the Program Manager for Defense Performance Strategy, you will cultivate and maintain relationships with DoD partners, guiding the development and implementation of cutting-edge technology to those who need it most.

You will be a key liaison and relationship builder within the Department of Defense (DoD) community. Your role will involve active collaboration and coordination with various DoD partners to identify their strategic technology needs. You will lead the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that directly address these requirements, ensuring that critical advancements are effectively delivered to the warfighters and defense personnel who rely on them to achieve their missions.

Benefits

At Kitman Labs we pride ourselves on being the best and working with the best, so it should be no surprise that we are also dedicated to keeping the best through building a world-class work culture. We truly believe that a successful company begins through having an outstanding and inspiring culture, so our benefits reflect this:

- Competitive salary

- Meaningful equity

- We Partner with Trinet to provide a full range of benefits including health, vision, dental, life cover, income protection & 401k assistance

- Wellness Perk

Diversity

In addition to building a team with diverse skill-sets, Kitman Labs is committed to hiring people with diverse backgrounds. We do not discriminate based on age, civil or family status, disability, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. If you are a person with a disability and require assistance during the application process, please let us know.

You can find information about how we process, share and keep your personal data safe by reading our privacy policy

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CEO of Kitman Labs

Stephen Smith

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Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)

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$80000K

$120000K

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What You Should Know About Program Manager, Defense Performance Strategy, Kitman Labs

At Kitman Labs, we’re excited to announce an opportunity for a Program Manager in Defense Performance Strategy to join our growing team based in the United States. We are leading the charge in how the defense industry utilizes data to boost servicemembers’ development, health, and performance. This role is pivotal in ensuring that our clients receive top-notch support and that our innovative software solutions meet their needs. As the Defense Program Manager, you will collaborate closely with the Director of Defense Performance Strategy, focusing on project execution and contract management in complex environments. If you have a solid military background and expertise in project management, this is your chance to enhance our client engagements and ensure operational excellence. You’ll be managing defense contracts, engaging with clients, and leading cross-functional teams to translate client requirements into actionable solutions. Your ability to navigate the complexities of defense environments will be essential, and your strong organizational and communication skills will help you foster relationships with military clients and stakeholders. At Kitman Labs, you'll not only contribute to meaningful projects but also play a part in transforming how the armed forces approach human performance and resilience. We value diverse perspectives and backgrounds, and we're committed to creating a welcoming and dynamic work culture where innovation thrives. Ready to join us in redefining defense performance? Let’s make a difference together at Kitman Labs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Program Manager, Defense Performance Strategy Role at Kitman Labs

What are the qualifications needed for the Program Manager position at Kitman Labs?

The ideal candidate for the Program Manager position at Kitman Labs should have between 5-10 years of experience in project management, particularly within a military, defense, or government contracting context. Familiarity with defense contracts and procurement regulations is ideal, while strong organizational skills are crucial for managing multiple projects effectively. Proficiency in project management tools like MS Project or Jira is also favored.