TalentSource360
We are seeking a strategic and execution-focused defense manufacturing executive to assume the role of Head of Operations, over manufacturing and distribution activities supporting multiple U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) customers. This role owns end-to-end operational performance, including product-based manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics, and compliance with government contracting requirements.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience in scaled manufacturing environments, strong knowledge of government contracting (FAR/DFARS), and a proven ability to build resilient, compliant supply chains in regulated industries.
Head of Operations
Location: Bethesda, MD
Office Schedule: Onsite 9am-5pm
Compensation: 260,000-280,000 + bonus
Key Responsibilities
Lead all manufacturing, production planning, distribution, and logistics operations to meet cost, quality, delivery, and compliance objectives
Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business growth and DoD customer requirements
Establish KPIs and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement across operations
Oversee product-based manufacturing operations, including capacity planning, scheduling, quality systems, and process optimization
Ensure timely and compliant distribution of products to government and defense customers
Own end-to-end supply chain strategy, including sourcing, procurement, supplier management, inventory control, and risk mitigation
Develop and maintain a resilient supplier base capable of meeting defense, security, and compliance requirements
Manage long‑lead items, obsolescence, and demand variability common in defense programs
Ensure operational compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and other applicable federal regulations
Partner with contracts, finance, and program management teams to support contract execution and audits
Support pricing, cost estimating, and operational inputs for proposals and contract modifications
Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, program management, finance, and contracts
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field (MBA preferred)
10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing and distribution environments
Strong background in product‑based manufacturing (defense, aerospace, industrial, or similarly regulated industries preferred)
Deep expertise in supply chain management, including procurement, inventory, and supplier performance
Demonstrated understanding of government contracting and compliance (FAR/DFARS; ITAR experience a plus)
Experience supporting multiple DoD customers and contract types (FFP, CPFF, IDIQ, etc.)
Familiarity with AS9100, ISO, or similar quality management systems
Experience leading operations through periods of growth or increased program complexity
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The ideal candidate brings deep experience in scaled manufacturing environments, strong knowledge of government contracting (FAR/DFARS), and a proven ability to build resilient, compliant supply chains in regulated industries.
Head of Operations
Location: Bethesda, MD
Office Schedule: Onsite 9am-5pm
Compensation: 260,000-280,000 + bonus
Key Responsibilities
Lead all manufacturing, production planning, distribution, and logistics operations to meet cost, quality, delivery, and compliance objectives
Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business growth and DoD customer requirements
Establish KPIs and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement across operations
Oversee product-based manufacturing operations, including capacity planning, scheduling, quality systems, and process optimization
Ensure timely and compliant distribution of products to government and defense customers
Own end-to-end supply chain strategy, including sourcing, procurement, supplier management, inventory control, and risk mitigation
Develop and maintain a resilient supplier base capable of meeting defense, security, and compliance requirements
Manage long‑lead items, obsolescence, and demand variability common in defense programs
Ensure operational compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and other applicable federal regulations
Partner with contracts, finance, and program management teams to support contract execution and audits
Support pricing, cost estimating, and operational inputs for proposals and contract modifications
Collaborate closely with engineering, quality, program management, finance, and contracts
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field (MBA preferred)
10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing and distribution environments
Strong background in product‑based manufacturing (defense, aerospace, industrial, or similarly regulated industries preferred)
Deep expertise in supply chain management, including procurement, inventory, and supplier performance
Demonstrated understanding of government contracting and compliance (FAR/DFARS; ITAR experience a plus)
Experience supporting multiple DoD customers and contract types (FFP, CPFF, IDIQ, etc.)
Familiarity with AS9100, ISO, or similar quality management systems
Experience leading operations through periods of growth or increased program complexity
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