Principal Program Manager - Defense Manufacturing

SAAB is seeking a Principal Program Manager to lead complex, multi-year programs across our advanced defense and security portfolio. You will own end-to-end delivery-from planning and budgeting through execution-ensuring scope, schedule, and quality targets are met in a high-tech manufacturing environment. Partner with engineering, operations, and global stakeholders to manage risk, drive process improvements, and ensure compliance with defense standards. Ideal candidates bring deep program leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for mission-critical innovation.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end planning and delivery of complex, multi-year programs in a defense manufacturing environment
• Define program scope, milestones, budgets, and resource plans aligned with customer and business objectives
• Coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality
• Monitor program performance, manage risks and issues, and implement corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with defense, security, and quality standards and customer contracts
• Report status, metrics, and risks to senior leadership and external stakeholders
• Drive continuous improvement in program management processes and tools
• Support bids, proposals, and cost estimates for new programs and expansions

Required Skills

• Program management
• Manufacturing operations knowledge
• Defense/aerospace industry knowledge
• Risk management
• Budgeting and cost control
• Schedule management
• Systems engineering familiarity
• Data analysis and reporting
• Stakeholder management
• MS Project or similar PPM tools