Sr Director, Program Operations

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

2d•$244,622 - $336,356

About The Position

Sierra Space is seeking a Sr Director, Program Operations to define and execute the strategic vision for program management across the enterprise. This executive position leads the development of program management as a core organizational capability, directly influencing business outcomes through portfolio optimization, enterprise resource allocation, and cross-functional leadership. The role shapes enterprise-wide program governance frameworks, drives executive decision-making processes, and ensures alignment between program execution and corporate strategic objectives. The ideal candidate is passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower, aligning with Sierra Space's mission of advancing space-based technology in service of customers and safeguarding national security.

Requirements

Master's degree in Business Administration, Management, Engineering or related field (Bachelor's degree with equivalent executive experience accepted)
15+ years of progressive leadership experience in program/portfolio management
10+ years in executive leadership roles with enterprise-wide responsibility
Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and delivering complex enterprise-wide strategic initiatives
Demonstrated experience building and leading program management as an organizational capability
Executive-level certifications: PfMP, PgMP, or equivalent executive program management credentials
Experience reporting directly to C-suite executives and presenting to Boards of Directors
Deep expertise in organizational design, change management, and capability development
Exceptional executive presence, communication skills, and strategic thinking abilities
Demonstrated ability to influence across organizational boundaries and drive executive decisions
Responsible for one or more components of a division, program or function at a group level or a key enterprise focus area

Nice To Haves

MBA or advanced degree from top-tier institution
Experience leading program management transformations in multiple industries
International program leadership experience across diverse business cultures
Published thought leadership in program management or related disciplines
Experience leading large-scale digital transformation or enterprise change initiatives
Board-level advisory experience on strategic program governance

Responsibilities

Define and implement the program management strategy aligned with corporate objectives and long-term business plans.
Establish governance frameworks, decision-making protocols, and escalation paths for all strategic programs.
Drive executive-level portfolio optimization decisions to maximize organizational ROI and strategic impact.
Serve as the executive sponsor for critical, high-visibility programs with significant business impact.
Develop and oversee the program management function as a strategic organizational capability.
Build and execute comprehensive strategies across multiple business areas/functions.
Make strategic decisions critical to organizational performance with significant short and long-term impact.
Direct resource allocation strategies across all business units to optimize program delivery capabilities.
Partner with C-suite executives to secure necessary resources and funding for strategic initiatives.
Establish portfolio-level financial governance models and capital allocation frameworks.
Implement advanced portfolio analytics to drive investment decisions and resource prioritization.
Lead strategic workforce planning for program management capabilities across the organization.
Demonstrate superior financial acumen in managing large-scale budgets and investment portfolios.
Ensure accountability for on-cost and on-schedule delivery across multiple programs with consistent focus on value creation.
Build and lead a high-performing organization of program management professionals.
Establish the program management career architecture, competency models, and succession planning.
Create the strategic vision for program management methodologies, tools, and technology platforms.
Develop executive-level program management talent and capabilities across the enterprise.
Partner with executive leadership to embed program management excellence in organizational culture.
Lead transformational organizational changes and drive cultural shifts as a catalyst for change.
Uphold and model company values; consistently hold others accountable to values.
Define enterprise-level KPIs and performance measurement frameworks for program success.
Lead executive-level program reviews and strategic portfolio assessments.
Implement enterprise risk management frameworks for program portfolios.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance program delivery capabilities.
Establish and oversee program management centers of excellence that define best practices.
Apply expert-level knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
Accountable for meeting financial plans, goals and schedules across the program management portfolio.
Serve as the primary program management advisor to C-suite executives and the Board.
Lead executive steering committees for enterprise-wide strategic initiatives.
Represent the organization to external stakeholders, industry groups, and strategic partners.
Build and maintain executive relationships across all business functions.
Influence organizational strategy through program management insights and performance data.
Demonstrate superior communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence at executive and board levels.
Regularly interact with internal and external executive leadership to drive strategic initiatives.