VP of Business Development (Defense)

ABOUT DEFCON AI RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF DISRUPTION. DEFCON AI is an insights company that leverages artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization, data analytics, and software engineering for resilient optimization of complex systems. In today’s dynamically changing world, DEFCON AI’s technology aligns outcomes with operational goals, better decision making, and empowers customers to anticipate assess, and mitigate the impacts of disruptions. About this Role We are seeking a VP of Business Development to lead growth across the Department of War programs . This role will drive pipeline , shape opportunities, and secure strategic partnerships across the defense ecosystem. The ideal candidate brings deep experience navigating the Pentagon, service branches, and congressional stakeholders, and has a proven ability to translate mission needs into commercial solutions. What You’ll Do Lead DoW business development efforts . Build and manage pipeline across contracts, OTAs, and SBIRs Engage directly with Pentagon and senior defense stakeholders Shape and capture opportunities from early identification through award Develop partnerships with primes, innovation orgs, and tech companies Advise leadership on growth strategy and market positioning What We’re Looking For 15+ years in defense, government, or national security roles Senior-level experience (military, government, or equivalent leadership) Deep familiarity with Department acquisition, funding and stakeholder landscape Proven abilty to build relationships and convert mission needs into funded programs Must be a US Citizen based in the Washington DC area Nice to Have Experience supporting or engaging programs integrating technology into DoW Background in emergine technologies (AI, autonomy, cyber, space) Experience leading business development teams Success in this Role Builds trusted relationships across DoW stakeholders Delivers qualified pipeline and wins strategic programs Positions the company as a credible DoW partner What We Offer: A fully remote, results-based environment Competitive salary, bonus, and equity package 100% employer paid, comprehensive health insurance including medical, dental, and vision for you and your family Unlimited PTO, with your manager’s approval Flexible work environment where you manage your work day 14 weeks of fully-paid parental leave Salary Range: $225,000-$275,000 with significant performance-based bonus opportunity, with total compensation tied to business development outcomes and contract awards. We’re an Equal Opportunity Employer: You’ll receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability. Applicant Data Disclosure By submitting an application, you acknowledge that Defcon AI uses third-party service providers to facilitate its recruitment and hiring processes. These providers include applicant tracking systems, candidate verification platforms, and fraud detection tools (collectively, "Hiring Platforms"). Your application materials, including your résumé, cover letter, work samples, responses to application questions, and any other information you submit, may be transmitted to and processed by these Hiring Platforms for the following purposes: Managing and administering your application throughout the hiring process; Verifying the accuracy and authenticity of application materials, including by cross-referencing information you provide against publicly available sources and proprietary databases; Identifying indicators of potentially fraudulent, fabricated, or materially misleading application content, including but not limited to discrepancies between submitted materials and publicly available professional profiles, geographic anomalies, and fabricated work histories. Applications that are flagged through this process as containing indicators of fraud or material misrepresentation may be de