Director of Autonomy

Director Of Autonomy

Detroit Defense is seeking an accomplished Director of Autonomy to lead strategy, development, and execution of autonomous systems within our defense portfolio. This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of autonomy products, concept through sustainment, while ensuring alignment with Department of Defense (DoD) priorities, customer mission needs, and company growth objectives.

The Director will serve as the senior leader for the Autonomy product line, shaping vision, driving program execution, and guiding cross-functional teams to deliver cutting-edge solutions that strengthen national security.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

• Product Line Leadership : Define and own the strategic roadmap for the Autonomy PLM portfolio, ensuring alignment with customer requirements, defense acquisition priorities, and corporate strategy.
• Lifecycle Management : Oversee product lifecycle activities from concept development, requirements definition, design, test, production, sustainment, and eventual obsolescence.
• Customer Engagement : Act as the primary interface with DoD customers, industry partners, and internal stakeholders to capture needs, shape requirements, and position the business for long-term growth.
• Financial Ownership : Drive profit and loss (P&L) responsibility for the autonomy portfolio, including budget planning, forecasting, and achieving financial targets.
• Program Execution : Partner with engineering, operations, supply chain, and business development to ensure successful program delivery on schedule, within budget, and to performance standards.
• Innovation & Growth : Identify emerging technologies, partnerships, and market opportunities in autonomy and AI / ML to advance the product line's competitiveness.
• Talent Development : Build and lead a high-performing PLM team; mentor and develop talent across technical and business functions.
• Compliance : Ensure adherence to all defense industry regulations, including ITAR, FAR / DFARS, export control, and cybersecurity requirements.

Requirements :

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.