VP, Global Enterprise Applications

Worker TypeRegularJob Description The Vice President – Global Enterprise Applications will lead the strategy, delivery, and modernization of enterprise applications and technology-enabled transformation initiatives across the Organization in an Aerospace & Defense (A&D) business. This executive will ensure that applications and programs support mission-critical functions, meet compliance and security standards (e.g., ITAR, DFARS, CMMC), and align with corporate growth and operational excellence objectives.Key Responsibilities:Enterprise Applications Leadership:Own the full lifecycle of enterprise applications including ERP (e.g., Oracle, SAP), PLM, MES, CRM, HRIS, and supply chain systems.Drive the modernization of legacy systems and ensure integrations with engineering, manufacturing, and defense logistics platforms.Ensure applications meet rigorous security, compliance, and audit standards relevant to the A&D industry.Program & Portfolio Management:Lead a portfolio of large-scale, cross-functional programs focused on digital transformation, system upgrades, and operational optimization.Establish and manage a Program Management Office (PMO) with oversight of project governance, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.Ensure programs meet cost, schedule, and technical performance goals consistent with government contract requirements.Transformation & Change Leadership:Design and execute enterprise-wide transformation initiatives including digital thread/digital twin, supply chain resiliency, and IT/OT convergence.Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, Sales and Compliance teams to align IT capabilities with business priorities.Lead change management strategies to ensure user adoption, training, and sustained performance improvements.Security, Compliance & Risk:Partner with CISO and Compliance teams to ensure applications and programs meet regulatory requirements including SOX, ITAR, CMMC, DFARS, and DoD cybersecurity frameworks.Support audits and reporting obligations for government programs and classified environments.Vendor & Stakeholder Management:Manage relationships with strategic partners, software vendors, and system integrators.Serve as a key liaison with government customers, subcontractors, and internal business units for technology-related programs.Leadership & Team Development:Build and lead high-performing teams of application managers, project/program leaders, and transformation specialists.Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.Attract and retain talent with a strong understanding of both commercial and defense-grade IT environments.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Engineering, Business, or related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred.15+ years of experience in IT leadership roles within the Aerospace & Defense industry or similar high-compliance, engineering-driven sectors.Proven experience leading ERP (Oracle preferred) and enterprise systems implementations in a regulated environment.Strong understanding of A&D manufacturing processes, defense contracting, and government program execution.Core Competencies:Strategic IT & Business AlignmentAerospace & Defense Compliance KnowledgeProgram and Portfolio LeadershipApplication Lifecycle ManagementDigital Transformation ExecutionExecutive Communication & Stakeholder EngagementRisk & Change ManagementCross-Functional LeadershipPhysical DemandsAbility to work in an office environment (Constant)Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)Special RequirementsOccasionally may be required to travel within the Continental U.S.The salary range for this role is:$220,000 - $288,750AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.ITAR Requirement:Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.Who We AreBased in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.What We DoBuilding on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.ITARU.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.