Program Manager - Commercial

Allen Control Systems•Austin, TX

About The Position

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing an autonomous gun turret using advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely detect, track, and neutralize enemy drones. With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders’ successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact. About The Role We are looking for a Program Manager - Commercial to join our team. This role focuses on commercial customer accounts and leads cross-functional initiatives that drive revenue growth, improve customer outcomes, and optimize business performance. You will sit at the intersection of strategy, operations, and execution, translating commercial objectives into scalable programs across sales, engineering, product, finance, and marketing teams. This role may require travel CONUS and OCONUS.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field.
5+ years of program or project management experience with a commercial or revenue focus.
Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives with excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Experience managing cost-plus and fixed-price contracts; proficiency with program management tools such as MS Project or Earned Value Management systems.

Nice To Haves

PMP or equivalent project management certification.
Familiarity with Agile methodology in a commercial or defense environment.
Strong analytical skills and experience working with data using tools such as Excel, SQL, or BI platforms.
Background in a high-growth or fast-paced environment, particularly in defense or aerospace.

Responsibilities

Partner with sales, marketing, engineering, product, and finance teams to execute revenue-generating strategies; translate business goals into structured programs with measurable outcomes.
Lead end-to-end delivery of complex, cross-functional commercial programs, defining scope, timelines, milestones, and success metrics.
Identify opportunities for growth, market expansion, and margin improvement; manage risks, dependencies, and stakeholder alignment across business, technical, and operational teams.
Communicate program status, insights, and data-driven recommendations to senior leadership; influence decision-making across the organization.
Design and implement scalable processes for commercial operations; support automation and operational efficiency initiatives.