Sr Director, Program Operations

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

About The Position

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team. About the Role Sr Director, Program Operations About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission. We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement. Senior Director, Program Operations Position Overview The Senior Director of Program Operations is responsible for defining and executing 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.

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