Logo
AeroVironment

Director, Contracts (Space and Directed Energy Group)

AeroVironment, Huntsville, Alabama, United States, 35824

Save Job

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

The Director of Contracts is responsible for managing and leading the contract management and oversight process of major Federal and commercial contracts with various agencies. This position has broad responsibility over contractual matters, while also supporting new business opportunities and growth strategies. Additional responsibilities include direct negotiations for large, complex domestic and international contracts, and participation in strategic initiatives related to the federal procurement process in evaluating market conditions, pricing strategies, and partnering approaches. The Director of Contracts must be a demonstrated leader serving the Federal, Commercial, and international markets with a proven track record in the administration and management of contracts. The position is expected to collaborate with the Business Area leaders to facilitate Key Performance Indicators.

Position Responsibilities

Manages Contracts functions (Drafting, Evaluation, Negotiation and Execution) such as:

NDA, Sales/Purchasing Agreements, Sub-contracts, Consulting Agreements, Licensing Agreements, Master Agreements, review of customer proposed terms and conditions

Distribution Agreements (resellers, agents, joint marketing, etc.)

Commercial and Public (Federal, State and Local Municipalities) Contracting

Build and mentor the AV Contracts Team to elevate their skills in performing highly efficient and accurate contracting management processes.

Participate in the business development process by providing expertise in contract knowledge, bid evaluation, proposal, and contract negotiation processes.

Actively participate in preparation and assists in negotiation of proposals as appropriate.

Structure and negotiate commercial arrangements such as sales contracts, supply arrangements, operation agreements.

Develop and negotiate joint venture agreements.

Formulate contractual terms and negotiate and administer contracts in accordance with company policies and procedures, applicable laws, and customer requirements which may include:

Bid strategy

Proposal reviews

Special project authorizations

Teaming agreements

Facilitate teaming arrangements as both a prime and subcontractor

Analyze and review existing contracts and corporate practices to ensure the maximum value is being achieved.

Provide interpretation of contract terms and conditions, and business risks to management:

Recommend modifications in contract contents to management where necessary.

Collaborate with Senior Management Team to coordinate DCAA, DCMA and other Federal Agency audits.

Participate in Senior Management Team meetings and other company meetings as required.

Ensure the company's vision, mission and core values are embraced by everyone within area of responsibility by emphasizing the importance of our core values and how they interrelate the company vision and are integrated into program and project execution.

Act as the focal point for communication with legal, finance and business team disciplines for resolution of contract issues and disputes.

Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

Bachelor’s degree (Business Administration, Finance, or related field) is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

15 years of directly relevant experience

Advanced degree preferred

Current expertise in Federal and International regulations, and relevant legal concepts

Significant experience in directly related International and DoD/Federal prime government contract administration/management

Entrepreneurial focus and ability to thrive and excel in a dynamic and technically focused environment

Demonstrated business acumen with experience in developing innovative solutions and a successful record of problem solving

Capability to contribute to strategic planning at all levels

Ability to interact effectively with company management, business area leads, functional counterparts and contract team members in a professional manner

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written, verbal, and presentation)

Demonstrated capability working successfully in a collaborative environment that inspires confidence in co-workers and customers

Experience in training and mentoring, and building highly effective teams

NCMA or other professional level certification(s) and/or related contracts coursework preferred

Availability for domestic and international travel

Qualified to have access to data and technology that is subject to ITAR; must be able to obtain such access before hiring

Presently hold or capable of obtaining a U.S. Security Clearance (Top Secret)

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

Uses vision to think beyond the immediate situation, explore multiple potential paths, and adapt decision‑making style based on situational circumstances

Inspires, motivates, and empowers people to deliver organizational goals while also delivering value back to employees

Brings organizational values to life using personality, uniqueness and the creation of a shared vision

Champions the process of change and promotes a culture of quick adaptation while helping others deal with the effects of change

Demonstrates the ability to develop and maintain internal and external trusting, professional relationships

Assesses the degree of risk and opportunity in plans or actions and takes appropriate action to mitigate them or makes plans to build on the opportunity

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)

Clearance Level Secret

Salary Range $135,355 – $192,150

ITAR Requirement This position requires access to information that is subject to ITAR and/or the EAR. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and the EAR, or be approved for an export license as required. The role may require current U.S. Citizenship; additional clearance (Top Secret) or the ability to obtain clearance is desired.

Benefits AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

Who We Are Based in California, AeroVironment (AV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971, we have been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years.

What We Do We design, develop, produce, and support advanced UAS and tactical missile systems that agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use to provide situational awareness through real‑time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

EEO Statement We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome all qualified applicants. Harmony, inclusion, and respect for diversity are central to our culture.

#J-18808-Ljbffr