Program Manager Defense Portfolio

Program Manager Defense Portfolio at Insight Global

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager with a strong background managing Department of National Defence (DND) or defence-related programs. The successful candidate will lead complex, multi-disciplinary programs involving government stakeholders, regulated environments, and mission-critical deliverables. This role requires deep knowledge of defence procurement processes, contract management, security compliance, and lifecycle project execution.

The Program Manager Defense Portfolio will be responsible for strategic oversight, governance, financial performance, and successful delivery of defence programs from initiation through closeout.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage large-scale DND or defence-related programs across multiple projects and workstreams
• Serve as the primary interface with DND, government representatives, prime contractors, and key stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with federal procurement policies, ITAR/controlled goods requirements, and defence security regulations
• Oversee program budgets, forecasts, earned value management (EVM), and financial reporting
• Develop and maintain integrated master schedules and program roadmaps
• Identify, assess, and mitigate program-level risks and dependencies
• Manage subcontractors and cross-functional technical teams (engineering, quality, supply chain, operations)
• Drive program governance, reporting, and executive-level communications
• Support proposal development, bid strategies, and contract negotiations
• Ensure alignment with performance, cost, schedule, and technical objectives
• Establish performance metrics and continuous improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Project Management, or related field
• 8+ years of program or project management experience
• 5+ years managing DND, defence, or military-related programs
• Demonstrated experience with Canadian defence procurement processes (e.g., PSPC, Treasury Board submissions)
• Strong understanding of defence contract types (FFP, CPIF, T&M)
• Experience managing programs within highly regulated environments
• Proven ability to manage multi-million-dollar budgets
• Experience working with cross-functional and geographically dispersed teams
• Security clearance (Secret or higher) or ability to obtain

Preferred Qualifications

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification
• Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Familiarity with ITAR and Controlled Goods Program (CGP) requirements
• Experience in aerospace, naval, land systems, or C4ISR programs
• Master’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related discipline

Key skills/competency

• Defense Program Management
• Canadian Defence Procurement
• Government Contract Management
• Security Clearance Management
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• ITAR/CGP Compliance
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Financial Oversight
• Risk Management
• Strategic Planning