📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior Acquisition Program Manager
🔹 Company: McBride
🔹 Location: Washington, DC
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Defense & Space
🔹 Date Posted: April 4, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Providing support to the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) Program Element Manager (PEM)
- Applying subject matter expertise to various project/program initiatives
- Identifying programmatic issues and developing recommendations for resolution
- Advising on resource management, responses to senior leadership, and best practices
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong background in defense acquisitions and program management, with a focus on C3BM systems.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Applies subject matter expertise to various project/program initiatives
✅ Identifies programmatic issues and develops recommendations to facilitate issue resolution
✅ Advises on all resource management issues pertaining to the evaluation of effective resource performance across the portfolio
✅ Serves as a branch integrator ensuring all programs briefings and charts meet proper format
✅ Advises on responses to senior leadership
✅ Advises the Government program manager on best practice’s
✅ Outlines policy disconnects, interpretation and management of all acquisition efforts
✅ Assist the Program Manager in management of day-to-day program activities, including integrated master scheduling, contract actions, action item resolution, execution of requirements and plans, management of technical/program related issues, development of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation plans, and test support
✅ Creates and assists in developing acquisition program documentation required by DOD 5000 series supporting program efforts and acquisition milestones/ reviews
✅ Assist with the definition, development, documentation and management of user requirements
✅ Prepares RFP documentation consisting of Statement of Objectives, Statement of Work, Program Specifications, Contract Data Requirements Lists, etc. per DOD 5000 series
✅ Supports the development of strategies and associated budgets to execute programs efficiently and effectively
✅ Prepares/update briefings and reports as required
✅ Monitors effectiveness of achieving program/enterprise goals and objectives, including monitoring cost, schedule and technical performance and associated risks
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high level of responsibility and requires strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and 25 years of experience, 15 years of which must be in the DoD, OR 30 years of directly related experience, 20 years of which must be in the DoD
Experience: Comprehensive knowledge of principles, policies and practices of systems acquisition and program management, as defined in DoDI 5000.02 and 5000.75, as well as knowledge of roles and relationships within the DoD and the Air Force
Required Skills:
- Familiar with cloud-based systems, including management and projection of cost and performance
- Familiar with agile methods and CI/CD, DevSecOps and DevOps principals
- Possess knowledge of qualitative and quantitative techniques for gathering, analyzing, and measuring the effectiveness, efficiency and productivity of acquisition programs
- Possesses the ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing, providing quality acquisition and program documentation including but not limited to briefings, documents,and plans
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and ability to proactively engage with and advise government and contractor support
- Proficiency in Microsoft Project, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word
- Must understand Pentagon operations
- Knowledge of Planning, Programming, Budgeting & Execution Process (PPBE), Requirement Development and Management
- Background in C3 with a broad cross-section of experience in Air and/or Space domains.
- Have knowledge in Battle Management decision aids and have experience with the software acquisition pathway.
- Travel is mandatory
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s or Doctorate Degree in a related field
ASSUMPTION: Given the nature of the role, candidates should have a strong background in defense acquisitions and program management, with a focus on C3BM systems.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $150,000 to $160,000 per month
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is based on industry standards for senior acquisition program management roles in the defense sector.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: McBride is a leading supplier of Private Label Household and professional cleaning/hygiene products for Europe's largest and most successful retailers as well as producing own brand products.
Company Size: McBride has 1,001-5,000 employees, providing a mid-sized company environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: McBride was founded in 1927 and has since grown to become a global leader in its industry.
Company Description:
- McBride works by its Key Principles - Teamwork, Communication, Engagement, and Leadership to create a positive environment for all employees.
- The company focuses on contract manufacturing, private label, and household cleaning products.
- McBride operates in various locations across Europe, including the UK, Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Spain, Italy, Denmark, and Poland.
Company Specialties:
- Contract Manufacturing
- Private label
- Homecare
- Surcare
- Ovenpride
- Clean N Fresh
- Hospec
- Household cleaning products
- Growing together
- Innovative research
- R&D
- Hygiene market
Company Website: http://www.mcbride.co.uk/
ASSUMPTION: While McBride is not directly related to the defense industry, the company's focus on teamwork, communication, and leadership makes it an attractive employer for candidates seeking a collaborative work environment.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the senior level, requiring extensive experience and expertise in acquisition program management.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Acquisition Program Manager will report directly to the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) Program Element Manager (PEM).
Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position located in Washington, DC, with mandatory travel required.
Growth Opportunities:
- As a senior role, this position offers opportunities for mentorship and leadership within the team.
- The defense industry provides ample opportunities for career growth and advancement.
- Working on high-profile projects such as the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) can lead to increased visibility and recognition within the organization.
ASSUMPTION: Given the nature of the role and the industry, candidates should have a strong desire to grow and advance their careers in acquisition program management.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: On-site, with a mandatory travel requirement
Office Location(s): Washington, DC
Geographic Context:
- The Washington, DC area offers a vibrant and diverse cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and historical sites.
- The region is home to a strong defense and aerospace industry, providing ample opportunities for career growth and networking.
- The cost of living in the Washington, DC area is relatively high compared to other regions in the United States.
Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexible hours and remote work options not available for this role.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable with a full-time, on-site work arrangement and be prepared for mandatory travel.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager
- Background check and reference check
- Job offer
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical expertise in acquisition program management
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with McBride's values
Application Tips:
- Highlight relevant experience and achievements in acquisition program management
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your fit for the role and the company
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions related to acquisition program management
ATS Keywords: Acquisition Program Management, Defense, C3BM, ABMS, Program Element Manager, PEM, Cloud-Based Systems, Agile Methods, CI/CD, DevSecOps, DevOps, Pentagon Operations, PPBE, Requirement Development and Management
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may vary depending on the specific needs of the hiring manager and the organization.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, as it is widely used in the defense industry.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Engagement
- Leadership
Work Style:
- Collaborative
- Results-driven
- Adaptable
- Innovative
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented work environment?
- Are you comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced industry?
- Do you possess strong communication and interpersonal skills?
- Are you able to work independently with minimal supervision?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should assess their fit with McBride's values and work style to ensure a successful cultural integration.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Working in the defense industry can be highly competitive and demanding
- The role may require frequent travel, which can be challenging for candidates with personal or family commitments
- The work environment may be subject to changes and uncertainties due to the nature of the defense industry
- Candidates may face challenges integrating into a new organization and adapting to its unique culture
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should carefully consider the potential challenges associated with the role and the industry before applying.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other acquisition program management roles, this position offers a higher salary range and the opportunity to work on high-profile defense projects
- The defense industry provides ample opportunities for career growth and advancement
- This role requires a higher level of experience and expertise than entry-level or mid-level acquisition program management positions
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research similar roles in the defense industry to better understand the unique aspects of this position and the industry as a whole.
📝 Sample Projects
- Leading a team to develop and implement a comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation plan for a high-profile defense project
- Managing the acquisition of a complex cloud-based system, including cost and performance management
- Developing and executing a strategy to efficiently and effectively execute a defense program, including planning, facilitation, coordination, and monitoring of cost, schedule, and technical performance
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience and achievements in acquisition program management during the interview process.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does this role fit into the organization's long-term goals and objectives?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?
- How does the company support work-life balance for its employees?
- What is the company's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should prepare thoughtful and insightful questions to demonstrate their interest in the role and the company.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions related to acquisition program management
- Research the company and the defense industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application to express your interest in the position
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
