Program Manager, Navy & Defense Innovation

FedTech•Arlington, VA

1d•$92,000 - $110,000•Hybrid

About The Position

FedTech is seeking a passionate Program Manager to drive the success of groundbreaking Navy innovation programs. This role involves leading the design, execution, and growth of accelerator programs focused on technology commercialization, venture creation, and strategic partnerships within the Navy and broader defense ecosystem. The ideal candidate will possess a strong program management background, thrive in fast-paced environments, and excel at building trusted relationships across government, industry, startups, and research organizations. This position demands a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to manage complex, multi-phase initiatives from strategy through execution.

Requirements

5+ years of experience supporting Navy innovation, technology commercialization, venture programs, or entrepreneurship initiatives, particularly within or alongside government organizations.
Direct experience working with or within the US Navy is required, with a working understanding of Navy acquisition, innovation, and technology transition pathways.
Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively across government, startups, industry, and research communities.
Demonstrated program or project management experience overseeing complex initiatives, coordinating multiple workstreams, and managing events or deliverables in fast-paced environments.
Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to facilitate meetings and convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
Analytical and detail-oriented, with experience using data and reporting to support decision-making and program success.
Comfortable using collaboration, productivity, and AI-enabled tools such as Google Workspace, Claude, Airtable, Slack, Beautiful.ai, and similar platforms.
Highly organized, adaptable, and self-driven, with an entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to take ownership in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute multi-phase accelerator and commercialization programs supporting Navy and dual-use innovation sponsors.
Source, evaluate, and transition emerging technologies from federal labs, research institutions, startups, and international partners into commercialization and mission-driven opportunities.
Build and manage relationships with stakeholders across Navy commands, industry, venture, and innovation ecosystems to align program outcomes with fleet and mission priorities.
Advise participating startups and technology teams on government funding pathways, procurement processes, small business programs, and commercialization strategies.
Plan and host demo days, technology showcases, pitch competitions, testing events, and stakeholder engagements that connect ventures with end-users, acquisition leaders, and technical evaluators.
Track and communicate program performance metrics, including venture progress, commercialization milestones, stakeholder engagement, and ROI to sponsors and leadership teams.
Support operational execution through management of timelines, deliverables, budgets, reporting, and cross-functional coordination.
Represent FedTech at industry events, government forums, conferences, and partner engagements to strengthen organizational visibility and business development efforts.
Contribute to evolving organizational priorities by supporting new initiatives, strategic projects, and process improvements as needed.