Program Manager, Defense Performance Strategy

Kitman Labs is revolutionizing how the defense industry leverages data to enhance servicemembers’ development, health, and performance. With deep expertise in data science, human performance, and operational strategy, we deliver advanced software solutions that enable the Department of Defense (DoD) to make data-driven decisions that optimize readiness, resilience, and mission success.
As a global company with a legacy of innovation in elite sports, Kitman Labs partners with organizations across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific. We work with premier military units, professional sports leagues, and high-performance organizations to maximize operational effectiveness through intelligent data integration and analytics.

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Defense Program Manager to support our rapidly growing Defense Vertical. Reporting to the Director of Defense Performance Strategy, this role is essential to successful client engagements, ensuring seamless project execution, strategic contract management, and operational excellence in complex environments. The ideal candidate will possess a solid military background, proven project management expertise, and experience navigating defense contracts. Key Responsibilities

• Project & Contract Management
• Lead the planning, implementation, and oversight of defense-focused projects, ensuring alignment with client expectations and Kitman Labs' strategic objectives.
• Effectively manage defense contracts, including reviewing, monitoring, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and deliver project status reports and documentation to internal stakeholders and defense clients.
• Client Engagement & Relationship Management
• Serve as the primary point of contact for defense clients, understanding their needs, objectives, and operational constraints.
• Foster strong client relationships, ensuring ongoing communication, satisfaction, and client health.
• Operational Excellence
• Collaborate with cross-functional internal teams (Data Science, Product Development, and Applied Performance) to translate client needs into actionable solutions.
• Proactively identify project risks, create mitigation strategies, and ensure timely resolution of issues.
• Implement best practices in process improvement and resource optimization to maximize efficiency and impact.
• Strategic Support & Complex Environment Navigation
• Navigate the complexities of defense environments, effectively collaborating with military stakeholders, partners, and contractors.
• Support strategic initiatives and special projects as directed by the Director of Defense Performance Strategy.

Key Qualifications & Experience

• 5-10 years of experience in project or program management, ideally within a military, defense, or government contracting context.
• Demonstrated experience managing and executing defense contracts.
• Familiarity with defense procurement, federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), and compliance.
• Exceptional organizational skills with proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in dynamic environments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of engaging confidently with military clients and senior stakeholders.
• Proficiency with project management tools and platforms (MS Project, Jira, Smartsheet, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous military service or extensive experience working directly with defense clients.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification.
• Understanding of software solutions, AI-driven analytics, and human performance platforms within defense applications.
• Active or previous security clearance (Secret or TS/SCI preferred).