Washington, D.C. (Remote in Continental U.S. considered)RemoteEst. $250K – $280K
Posted May 12, 2026
Experience & Track Record
12+ years of private sector experience selling to public sector, at least some of that time in an executive position in either business development, capture, or federal sales, and ideally with a focus on defense or national security. - Demonstrated ownership of the full lifecycle from early shaping (“left of bang”) through capture, award, and post‑award expansion. - At least $100M+ in cumulative contract value influenced, captured, or closed over the course of a career. - History of moving efforts from prototype / pilot / SBIR / OTA into enduring programs of record. Contracting & Acquisition Depth
Strong working knowledge of DoW and federal acquisition pathways, including hands‑on experience with:
FAR / DFARS‑based contracts (FFP, CPFF, T&M, hybrids)
Innovation‑focused mechanisms such as SBIR/STTR, BAAs, CSOs, and rapid acquisition authorities
Ability to creatively navigate acquisition constraints and identify non‑obvious paths to award and scale. Domain & Customer Credibility
Deep familiarity working with DoW stakeholders and mission owners, such as:
Program Executive Offices (PEOs) or Portfolio Acquisition Executives (PAEs)
PMOs / Requiring Activities
Combatant Commands, services, or defense agencies
Track record of engaging credibly with operators, acquisition professionals, and senior government leadership. - Experience selling or scaling technically complex capabilities, such as software platforms, AI/data systems, cyber, EW, autonomy, advanced sensing, or mission‑critical infrastructure. Leadership & Operating Model
Proven experience acting as a player‑coach - setting strategy while personally driving the most important deals. - Experience building or leading BD, capture, proposal, and contracting teams, either directly or in matrixed environments. - Demonstrated ability to establish discipline without bureaucracy: clear bid/no‑bid decisions, win themes, pipeline rigor, and accountability. Clearance
Current U.S. security clearance strongly preferred
Location & Travel
Strong preference for the Washington, DC metro area (or willingness to relocate). - Expect meaningful time in the field shaping, capturing, and closing. This role is a contact sport. - Up to 30% travel. First 90 Days (High‑Level)
Develop a clear Red Cell public sector growth thesis and identify a small number of priority mission areas and pursuits. - Launch disciplined shaping and capture efforts on the highest‑leverage opportunities. - Stand up the initial BD → Capture → Close operating cadence across the portfolio. - Create visible momentum with early wins, clear pipeline ownership, and leadership alignment. Final Thought
Many roles in defense innovation talk about impact. This is one of the rare ones where you can actually create it - by building the growth system that turns bold ideas into real capability for the American warfighter. If you want a role you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in the defense ecosystem, this is it. Salary Range: $250,000-$280,000 - This represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience, skills, and other factors. Our Red Cell Partners Benefits:
For full-time roles
Career track opportunity with potential for rapid advancement with strong performance as the firm grows
100% employer paid, comprehensive health care including medical, dental, and vision for you and your family. - Paid maternity and paternity for 14 weeks at employees' normal pay. - Unlimited PTO, with management approval. - Opportunities for professional development and continued learning. - Optional 401K, FSA, and equity incentives available. - Mental health benefits are available through Tara Mind. - Cost effective GLP-1 solutions available through Crux. ---
Applicant Data Disclosure
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