Mission Systems Director - Vannevar Labs

Vannevar is a defense technology company building AI to deter our adversaries. In the 21st century, conflict moves at algorithmic speed and foresight equals firepower. Our agentic AI is purpose-built to compete with China—from cross-Strait conflict to gray zone coercion. Trained on the most mission-relevant datasets in defense, our technology models adversary behavior, simulates campaigns, and recommends the best course of action to decision makers. Our AI systems are some of the most trusted in the industry and actively used on the front lines of the Indo-Pacific to keep the peace and save lives.

Exceptional technology starts with exceptional people. Vannevar is a small agile team combining world-class engineers with veteran strategists who bring deep expertise in defense and tradecraft. We’re building a company defined by mission impact, user empathy, and disciplined growth. In just three years, we grew from $3M to $80M in ARR, achieved early profitability, and reached unicorn status—proving that disruption doesn’t require an ego, and staying power doesn’t mean standing still.

About the Role

We are looking for a senior acquisition leader to join Vannevar to shape long-cycle opportunities across PEOs and major program offices. This role is central to Vannevar’s pivot into PEO-first growth. You will bring first-hand experience on how programs are built, funded, fielded, integrated, and sustained to help Vannevar shape the next generation of capabilities. As part of our Mission Systems organization, your insights into PEO structures, program office decision-making, acquisition timelines, budgeting, and integration challenges will guide how we shape requirements, build relevance early, and position Vannevar to win large, durable programs. This is a unique opportunity for a former PEO, Deputy PEO, Major PMO Lead, or Senior Program Manager who wants to apply their operational and acquisition experience inside a fast-moving national security startup that is building tools directly aligned to the needs of the military.

U.S. Persons status with at least a current Top Secret US DoD or IC clearance is required.

What You’ll Do

Shape early program strategy

• Advise on program structures, acquisition pathways, funding lines, risk areas, and modernization priorities
• Identify where and how Vannevar can meaningfully support programs—whether through capability gaps, integration challenges, or modernization timelines.
• Inform long-range strategy around $200M+ programs, major new starts, re-competes, and technical upgrade cycles.

Build trusted customer relationships

• Leverage your network across PEOs, PMWs, and partner organizations to open doors, deepen trust, and accelerate customer understanding.
• Engage senior acquisition leaders to understand real-world constraints, mission needs, and where Vannevar’s