Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization

Integration Innovation•Huntsville, AL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

i3 Defense Technical Services (DTS) is seeking a Director of Technical Strategy & Modernization to lead a major technology modernization effort for a Department of Defense customer at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This role goes beyond traditional program management. We need a strategic technology leader who can work confidently with SES leaders, General Officers, engineers, architects, developers, cybersecurity teams, and data professionals. The ideal candidate brings executive presence, strong technical depth, and a proven ability to drive digital transformation across complex defense environments. An ideal candidate is a transformational leader with a history of modernizing legacy systems, introducing emerging technologies, improving delivery performance, and accelerating mission outcomes. Someone who can walk into any room, from SES executives to software developers, and immediately establish credibility. A visionary who inspires teams and delivers measurable results. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples where they personally led organizational transformation, technology modernization, AI adoption, cloud migration, DevSecOps implementation, or enterprise-scale digital transformation efforts and the measurable outcomes achieved.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 21 years of progressively responsible experience leading complex technical programs and modernization initiatives. Master's degree may substitute for 3 years of experience. Doctorate may substitute for 6 years of experience.
Extensive DoD and defense industry experience
Proven success leading large-scale modernization or digital transformation efforts
Deep understanding of: AI/GenAI, DevSecOps, cloud, automation, data, cybersecurity, Zero Trust, and digital transformation frameworks
Strong track record building and leading technical teams
Experience managing complex programs with multiple stakeholders and vendors
Excellent communication and executive engagement skills
Active Secret clearance or higher
U.S. Citizenship

Nice To Haves

Experience leading enterprise AI adoption
Experience with AI-enabled software development tools
Cloud migration and application modernization experience
Experience developing data strategies and advanced analytics capabilities
Relevant certifications (PMP, Agile, Cloud, Security, etc.)

Responsibilities

Lead Technical Strategy & Modernization: Build and execute modernization roadmaps aligned to mission goals. Advise senior government leaders on emerging technologies and digital transformation needs. Identify opportunities to enhance mission effectiveness through innovative solutions (AI, Gen AI, DevSecOps, Platform Engineering, Cloud, Data analytics and enterprise data strategies, Software Modernization, Application Transformation, etc.)
Drive Program Execution: Oversee development lifecycles and ensure delivery of complex technical initiatives. Set priorities, track metrics, manage risks, and coordinate across multiple workstreams. Ensure solutions meet mission, quality, and performance expectations.
Lead and Develop High-Performing Teams: Build, mentor, and guide multidisciplinary engineering, cyber, and data teams. Ensure the right skills, staffing, and culture to support modernization objectives. Foster innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Champion Modern Engineering Practices: Promote best practices in Agile, DevSecOps, cloud, data, and platform engineering. Ensure architectures are scalable, secure, and aligned with mission needs. Drive adoption of modern tools, automation, and development approaches.
Engage Executives and Grow Strategic Opportunities: Communicate complex technical topics in clear, mission-focused terms. Build trusted relationships across senior government stakeholders. Identify new requirements, shape future modernization initiatives, and support business growth.