Head of Defense Industrial Base

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

As the Head of Defense Industrial Base (DIB), you will partner with senior leadership to craft and execute a forward-looking engagement strategy that positions our company as an indispensable partner to prime contractors, suppliers, and government stakeholders. You’ll spearhead business development and alliance efforts across the DIB ecosystem—identifying joint-venture and co-development opportunities, securing high-value contracts, and championing our capabilities at industry conferences and defense forums. Collaborating closely with engineering, program management, and operations teams, you’ll ensure our solutions meet the exacting requirements of DIB partners while navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Your insights into supply chain dynamics, emerging technologies, and federal initiatives will drive proposals, enhance resilience programs, and inform our long-term growth plans within the U.S. defense industrial base.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with other senior leaders to develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the company’s relationships with key players in the DIB, including prime contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and government stakeholders.
• Lead business development and engagement efforts with the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), driving strategic partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities within the defense and aerospace ecosystem.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with defense contractors, procurement officials, and industry leaders to secure contracts and establish the company as a critical partner within the DIB.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for joint ventures, technology integration, and co-development initiatives to align with the needs of the DIB and enhance the company’s market positioning.
• Act as the company’s primary liaison to the DIB, representing its capabilities at industry events, defense forums, and key stakeholder meetings.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including engineering, program management, and operations, to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements of DIB partners and programs.
• Monitor and analyze trends in the defense industry, including supply chain dynamics, emerging technologies, and evolving regulatory frameworks, to inform business strategies.
• Oversee the capture and proposal process for DIB-related contracts, ensuring alignment with government regulations and compliance standards.
• Drive initiatives to enhance supply chain resilience and foster industrial collaboration, including offset programs, industrial participation agreements, and regional production strategies.
  
  

Basic Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in business development, program management, or supply chain leadership within the defense, aerospace, or industrial sectors.
• Deep understanding of the U.S. Defense Industrial Base, including its structure, key stakeholders, procurement processes, and regulatory environment.
• Proven ability to win and manage contracts with prime contractors, government entities, and other DIB participants.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage senior leaders across the defense and industrial sectors.
• Familiarity with supply chain dynamics and manufacturing processes within the defense industry.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Established network of relationships within the Defense Industrial Base, including prime contractors, tier-1 and tier-2 suppliers, and key government stakeholders.
• Knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing, automation, and materials innovation, relevant to the DIB.
• Experience with supply chain risk management and resilience planning, particularly in a defense context.
• Familiarity with federal initiatives to strengthen the DIB, such as the Defense Production Act (DPA) and other government-led industrial base programs.
• Expertise in integrating emerging technologies, such as AI/ML, cybersecurity, and advanced logistics systems, into the defense supply chain.
• Strong understanding of global and domestic geopolitical dynamics impacting the defense industrial base.
  
  

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.