Senior Program Manager

Company DescriptionDcode is a team of doers dedicated to bridging the gap between the speed of technology and the federal government. We align people, culture, policies, and processes to get tech in the hands of those who need it most. Operating at the nexus of government leaders, emerging tech companies, and venture capital, we turn roadblocks into results.Role SummaryWe are seeking a mission-driven, results-oriented Senior Program Manager to lead the execution of high-priority initiatives for a defense sector client. In this role, you will lead major workstreams and projects that deliver measurable mission outcomes, while helping stand up and operationalize a rapid acquisition capability.You will play a critical role in building and implementing the frameworks, governance models, decision structures, and performance metrics required to accelerate innovation and delivery. This includes advising client stakeholders on program improvements, strengthening decision-making discipline, and ensuring teams remain focused on outcomes rather than outputs.Success in this role requires the ability to navigate ambiguity, lead teams, influence senior stakeholders, and translate complex challenges into structured, repeatable solutions that scale.Salary range: $116,000-$152,000TS-SCI with polygraph is strongly preferred. Eligibility for clearance is required.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Leadership & DeliveryLead projects or major workstreams delivering measurable mission outcomes in high-tempo environmentsTranslate strategic objectives into actionable plans, operating models, and repeatable processesDesign and implement frameworks for rapid acquisition, including intake, evaluation, decision-making, and transition workflowsDrive execution through agile, sprint-based delivery models, ensuring progress is measurable and iterativeEnsure teams remain focused on outcomes (mission impact, speed, ROI) rather than outputsIdentify risks, anticipate challenges, and proactively implement mitigation strategiesClient Advisory & Stakeholder EngagementServe as a trusted advisor to client stakeholders, providing data-driven recommendations on program and process improvementsFacilitate alignment across leadership, program offices, and cross-functional stakeholdersSupport the development of governance structures, decision frameworks, and operating chartersEnable faster, more disciplined decision-making through standardized approaches (e.g., down-selects, risk recalibration, transition readiness)Performance & Continuous ImprovementEstablish and implement performance measurement frameworks, including leading indicators (e.g., cycle time, throughput, decision velocity)Develop ROI and impact models to support investment decisions and future scaling effortsEnsure pilots and initiatives are structured as evidence-generating experiments with consistent evaluation criteriaDrive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and refining processesEcosystem & Innovation EnablementSupport the design and execution of engagement models with startups, academia, and emerging technology partnersStandardize approaches for technology evaluation, integration readiness, and vendor engagementHelp align innovation efforts with mission priorities and scalable delivery pathwaysPeople Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead and manage team members across projects, ensuring high-quality delivery and professional growthTake responsibility for onboarding new team members and accelerating time to productivitySupport professional development through regular feedback and career conversationsManage team utilization across projects to ensure effective resourcing and deliveryFoster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learningContract & Delivery ManagementManage contract execution to ensure compliance, performance, and profitability targets are metMonitor delivery health, flag risks early, and implement solutions to improve efficiency and scalabilitySkills And ExperienceRequired Skills and Experience5–7 years of relevant professional experience, including leadership of government-facing programs or workstreamsExperience supporting DoD or federal clients in areas such as acquisition, innovation, technology integration, or program managementDemonstrated ability to lead projects and deliver measurable outcomes in complex, ambiguous environmentsExperience advising stakeholders and influencing decisions at multiple levels of an organizationStrong understanding of program management principles, with exposure to agile methodologiesExcellent communication skills, including the ability to develop executive-level briefings and decision-ready materialsStrong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on structured thinking and executionPreferred QualificationsFamiliarity with DoD acquisition pathways (e.g., OTAs, CSOs, IDIQs)Experience building or implementing governance frameworks, operating models, or performance metricsExperience working with innovation ecosystems, including startups or emerging technology vendorsYou’ll Excel in This Role If You:Thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments with evolving prioritiesBalance strategic thinking with hands-on executionProactively identify problems and drive solutions without waiting for directionCan translate complex challenges into clear, structured approachesAre comfortable leading teams while also delivering independentlyFocus on outcomes and impact rather than activity aloneAdditional InformationWe look for resilient hustlers:Our CEO busted her face on the balance beam in college and got back up… our CRO has knocked on a thousand doors, was rejected 999 times, and kept on knocking... What is your story?Equal Opportunity StatementWe provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, family or parental status, national origin, veteran, or disability status. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.We believe diversity is a strength and aim to build an innovative and welcoming culture where people from all backgrounds feel respected and included. We believe that true innovation happens when everyone has the tools, resources, and opportunities to excel.Powered by JazzHR6LioQ7cUT8