Chief of Staff

Role Description: 

We are seeking a strategic and driven Chief of Staff to support our senior leadership team in advancing business objectives from concept to execution in a dynamic environment. This role will be instrumental in crafting and executing a strategic roadmap that aligns with the Defense Unicorns growth objectives.  Are you a bold, strategic leader who thrives in navigating uncertainty and is driven to make an impact. With a strong focus on adaptability and results, this person will leverage their risk-taking mindset to influence the company’s strategic direction, driving initiatives that support meaningful transformation in a high-stakes, mission-oriented environment.

The ideal candidate brings a strong operational background with a proven ability to translate strategic concepts into scalable actions. They excel at building structure within a high-growth, remote environment, all in support of our mission of transforming how the U.S. defense apparatus buys, builds, delivers, and sustains mission capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Own and manage the strategic planning framework, guiding teams from the ideation of business objectives through the translation into actionable plans.
• Serve as the architect of company-wide initiatives, ensuring alignment and clear communication of objectives, metrics, and outcomes through all levels of the organization.

Operational Leadership:

• Act as a bridge between departments, creating processes and frameworks that enable operational efficiency across a remote environment.
• Build and implement new structures, processes, and tools to support business objectives, especially in areas with limited existing frameworks.
• Support the CEO and executive team in day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives, taking charge of critical projects to ensure timely execution.

Data-Driven Insights:

• Leverage available data to measure KPI’s and tell the company’s performance story, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making.
• Develop, maintain and enhance methods for collecting and analyzing data to improve operational outcomes and support key decisions.

Investor and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with executive leadership to prepare for and execute Series B, or C funding rounds, showcasing a clear growth narrative and data-driven projections.
• Communicate the company’s progress and milestones to stakeholders and investors, ensuring alignment and clarity on Defense Unicorns trajectory.

Risk Management and Strategic Innovation:

• Identify potential operational risks and develop mitigation strategies while fostering a culture of innovation and calculated risk-taking.
• Lead discovery initiatives in new business areas, navigating ambiguity and implementing structure in uncharted territories.

Cross-Functional Collaboration and Influence:

• Act as a trusted advisor and facilitator across all teams, connecting cross-functional initiatives to company-wide objectives.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and accountability, ensuring seamless integration of new processes, frameworks, and strategic goals.

Travel Expectations/Requirements: 25-40%

The listed responsibilities are not exhaustive and additional responsibilities may be assigned or discovered based on the evolving needs of the organization. The successful candidate is a dynamic individual who is able to adapt and take on new responsibilities as they arise. You will be expected not just to fill gaps as they arise, but proactively identify and take ownership of gaps to drive toward new processes and solutions.

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:

• A proven track record in a high-impact role (e.g., Chief of Staff, VP of Operations, or similar) managing business operations and strategic initiatives.
• Strong background in operational leadership with experience moving from concept to execution, particularly in data-constrained environments.
• Demonstrated ability to drive measurable outcomes and provide data-backed insights and storytelling to executive teams and stakeholders.
• Experience navigating Series A, B, or C funding rounds with a deep understanding of investor relations and funding strategies.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a strategic mindset 
• Experience supporting business initiatives across functional areas to inform business strategy and evolution.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; the ability to effectively interact with Heroes, stakeholders, and team members at all levels of the organization and across all Departments.