Contract & Proposal Manager, Defense

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 Contract & Proposal Manager to support our rapidly growing Defense vertical with specialized expertise in DoD software acquisition and contracting. This role is essential to ensuring seamless acquisition and execution of software-focused projects, contract management, proposal development and operational excellence in complex environments. The ideal candidate will possess a solid background in navigating defense software contracts, developing Federal Acquisition Regulation compliant proposals for new work and managing current programs.
Please note: only candidates with DoD background and experience working with DoD clients will be considered. Proposal Development and Contract Management

• Lead the full lifecycle management of defense software acquisition projects, with a focus on aligning Kitman Labs' offerings with DoD acquisition processes and regulations.
• Effectively manage defense contracts, including the preparation, negotiation, and execution of software acquisition agreements, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present comprehensive project status updates and contractual documentation to internal stakeholders and defense clients.
• Draft responses to DoD acquisition documents such as Requests for Information and Requests for Proposals.

Client Engagement & Relationship Management

• Foster strong client relationships, ensuring ongoing communication, satisfaction, and client health.

Operational Excellence

• Be a team player. 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 contracting and acquisition 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 with US Department of Defense contracting and federal acquisition regulation based proposal development program management.
• Demonstrated experience managing and executing defense contracts.
• Familiarity with defense procurement, federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), and government contract 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

• Extensive experience working directly with defense software clients.
• Direct experience with Air Force and healthcare software acquisition and contracting.
• 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).