Director, Special Programs and Government Security Solutions

Watlow Recruitment Team • St. Louis, MO

11d • Hybrid

About The Position

Watlow is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Director, Special Programs and Government Security Solutions to lead strategic compliance efforts and strengthen relationships with key government, aerospace, and defense customers. You’ll serve as a compliance leader and program steward, driving excellence in project execution and ensuring adherence to laws and regulations across high-security programs, including DFAR/FAR, CUI/CDI/CMMC, DoE/DoD/ITAR, and other restricted-access initiatives.
In this role, you’ll leverage compliance and business processes as a competitive advantage, enabling Watlow to scale effectively while managing complex programs. You’ll work closely with teams across Business Development, Contracts, Cybersecurity, and Global Trade Compliance to ensure strategic alignment and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related field. U.S. citizenship required due to regulatory and clearance requirements
• 10+ years supporting business development, account management, or sales within government and defense sectors in a compliance-focused role
• Proven experience managing large-scale contracts with federal, state, and local agencies. Familiarity with procurement processes, contract vehicles, regulatory requirements, and project management tools (e.g., DPAS)
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain high-level relationships with key stakeholders in government and defense
• Exceptional verbal and written communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, including to high-risk areas as designated by the U.S. Department of State
• Must be eligible for SECRET or TOP SECRET/SCI clearance in the future

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or MBA; law degree is a plus
• Experience with NISPOM program management; prior work with DOE, FAA, NIST, NSF, USG agencies, or U.S. national laboratories supporting R&D programs
• Deep understanding of government procurement and defense program compliance frameworks

Responsibilities

• Drive Regulatory Compliance: Lead enterprise-wide adherence to government regulations, security requirements, and contract obligations across defense, aerospace, and sensitive programs. Monitor emerging risks and policy trends to proactively mitigate threats.
• Lead Cross-Functional Teams: Guide internal teams to deliver high-quality solutions and services, ensuring alignment with client objectives and strategic priorities. Champion collaboration across Product, Operations, Finance, and Commercial functions.
• Forge Strategic Government Relationships: Build and sustain high-impact relationships with federal, state, and local stakeholders to advance program success and enterprise initiatives.
• Implement Technology & Security Controls: Develop and enforce robust systems for handling controlled information, including access, storage, and transfer protocols, while supporting cross-border collaboration and integrated solutions.
• Oversee Audits & Compliance Programs: Direct internal audits, self-assessments, and external certification processes, driving program maturity and continuous improvement in compliance operations.
• Manage Government Registrations & Programs: Lead enterprise compliance with registrations, procurement systems, licensing, agreements, and foreign military sales. Partner closely with Global Trade Compliance to ensure regulatory alignment.
• Mitigate Risk & Investigations: Lead internal investigations, manage mandatory reporting, and maintain transparent communication to uphold program integrity and accountability.
• Shape Security & Program Strategy: Define and implement enterprise security programs, including NISPOM obligations, ensuring alignment with long-term organizational objectives and operational readiness.

Benefits

• Annual Incentive Program
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match on your contribution and an annual company contribution that is tied to company performance
• Wellness incentives
• Employee Personal Assistance Program
• Dental, medical, vision and short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director