Program Manager

As a Program Manager at Guidehouse, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks that include developing acquisition strategies, evaluating procurement options, and providing subject matter expertise on DoD Instruction 5000 processes. Additionally, you'll manage program schedules, prepare documentation, and present materials related to program needs, ensuring smooth operations within U.S. Air Force acquisition and sustainment programs.

To qualify for the Program Manager role at Guidehouse, candidates must have a Bachelor's degree and a minimum of seven years of relevant work experience, including three years in a DoD-related program. While an active security clearance is preferred, the ability to obtain one is required, alongside strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving within a fast-paced environment.

Guidehouse is dedicated to creating a diverse and supportive workplace, offering competitive compensation and a robust benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) plans, and opportunities for personal development like tuition reimbursement. This commitment to employee wellness and growth makes it an excellent choice for Program Managers looking to advance their careers.

In the Program Manager role at Guidehouse, you will work closely with U.S. Air Force personnel to support their acquisition and sustainment initiatives. This includes gathering information, assisting in strategic planning, and communicating vital insights to management effectively, ensuring alignment with military objectives and operational excellence.

Career progression for a Program Manager at Guidehouse often involves moving into senior leadership roles within the organization or specializing in specific defense acquisition areas. The opportunity to develop skills through ongoing training and certifications, coupled with exposure to high-impact projects, sets the stage for advancing your career within the industry.

To ensure the successful completion of a defense acquisition project, I focus on thorough planning and adherence to established guidelines. I assemble a dedicated team, set clear objectives, develop a detailed project timeline, and continuously monitor progress against milestones, adjusting strategies as necessary to address any emerging challenges.

Certainly! In my previous role, I developed a comprehensive acquisition strategy for a new defense system that involved engaging stakeholders early in the process, conducting thorough market research, and aligning the strategy with DoD policies. This approach enabled us to secure the necessary approvals and successfully implement the acquisition on schedule.

I find project management software like Microsoft Project and data visualization tools such as Tableau to be incredibly effective for tracking and reporting on program performance. These tools help in creating clear reports and visualizations that make it easy for stakeholders to understand project status and key metrics.

In a fast-paced project environment, I prioritize tasks by assessing their impact and urgency. I focus on high-impact activities that align with project milestones while ensuring that any immediate issues are addressed promptly. Regular team meetings help in maintaining clear communication and adjusting priorities as needed.

In a previous project, we encountered a major delay due to unexpected regulatory changes. I organized a team meeting to reassess timelines and outlined a revised action plan that included alternative resources and adjusted stakeholder expectations. By keeping communication transparent, we managed to mitigate the impact and successfully achieve our objectives.

I have extensive experience with DoD Instruction 5000 processes through my previous roles in defense program management. I've been involved in drafting documentation, participating in acquisition strategy sessions, and ensuring compliance at all program milestones, which has equipped me with a deep understanding of these critical processes.

To foster collaboration among diverse teams, I emphasize the importance of open communication and shared goals. I set up cross-functional meetings regularly to allow team members from different areas to provide input and updates, which helps everyone stay aligned and cultivates a team-oriented environment.

For effective risk management in defense acquisition programs, I utilize a proactive approach that includes identifying potential risks early, conducting thorough assessments, and formulating mitigation plans. Continuous monitoring and re-evaluation of risks ensure that we can pivot when necessary to address any challenges that arise.

Documentation is a cornerstone of my project management approach, ensuring that all processes, decisions, and changes are recorded clearly. This practice not only enhances transparency and accountability but also provides structured information for audits and stakeholder reviews, contributing to overall project success.

When disagreements arise within the project team, I facilitate open discussions that allow each team member to express their views. By encouraging constructive dialogue, we can explore alternative solutions and ultimately reach a consensus that everyone can support, fostering a positive team dynamic.