Senior Managing Director, Defense Portfolio

Cayuse Holdings

. Build, lead, sell, and deliver large, complex programs across DoD agencies .

Posted 9/25/2026full-timeRosslyn • Virginia • United StatesSenior💰 $200,000 - $300,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Build, lead, sell, and deliver large, complex programs across DoD agencies
Develop strategy and manage relationships with key defense clients
Partner with sales/capture teams and delivery teams to grow profitable accounts
Advise senior leaders on industry, government trends, and strategic priorities
Build trusted relationships and understand client missions, priorities, budgets, constraints, and needs
Oversee and coach complex program business development and delivery teams
Balance client interaction, delivery excellence, profitability, and long-term account growth
Shape current and future solutions based on industry trends, client discussions, and strategic growth objectives
Ensure profitable delivery and improve margins through pricing structures and operational efficiency
Collaborate with business unit and company leadership to advocate for portfolio priorities and staffing
Establish long-term relationships with key clients
Create Defense Portfolio strategic and financial plans and service roadmaps
Grow Defense market penetration over the next 3–5 years
Optimize delivery and margin growth according to annual plan commitments
Improve client and employee satisfaction
Act as a project manager or consultant coach during challenging situations
Align and mobilize stakeholders across the organization
Resolve escalations and issues when commitments are not met
Coach or support sales/capture teams on RFP responses and contract renewals
Perform other duties as assigned
Reports to the BU Executive Managing Director
Directly manages Client Account Directors, Company Managing Directors, and Business Development Directors

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree, with Master’s/MBA desired
At least 15+ years of leadership experience in the Defense market
15+ years of experience in sales, account management, or operational P&L with a management consulting, IT, or professional services organization; strong Federal experience may substitute
At least 10+ years of project management and delivery of IT and professional services with complex, large clients
Experience coaching, mentoring, and leading senior-level direct reports and large-scale, cross-functional execution teams
Experience managing and monitoring performance metrics across large-scale accounts and account portfolios, and managing teams to meet KPIs
Previous responsibility for profit and loss
Military Service is desired
Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI clearance
Must be able to pass a background check; additional checks may be required
Problem-solving skills
Executive presence and exceptional leadership/management skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills and confident presentation skills
Ability to respond effectively to customers with a sense of urgency
Proficient in Microsoft and Adobe toolsets, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Acrobat
Highly motivated, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Ability to forge new individual and teaming relationships
Self-starter able to work independently and as part of a team
Must be physically and mentally able to perform duties for extended periods
Ability to use a computer and office productivity tools with sufficient speed
Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace
Must be able to sit for long periods while looking at a computer screen
May be asked to work outside normal business hours and travel for business or professional development

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
Wellness Program
Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability options
Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)
Voluntary Life and AD&D options
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with matching after one year
Paid Time Off
Flexible schedule may include holidays
Business travel or professional development opportunities