Senior Manager, Customer Program & Operations Excellence – Aerospace & Defense Supply Chain Leadership, Driving Mission‑Critical Logistics Excellence at brighthush

About brighthush

brighthush is a global leader in aerospace and defense logistics, delivering precision‑driven solutions that keep critical missions on schedule and within budget. With operations spanning every continent, we partner with manufacturers, contractors, and government agencies to ensure that every component, every shipment, and every decision meets the highest standards of reliability, compliance, and cost‑effectiveness. Our reputation is built on relentless continuous improvement, a culture of teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to customer success. If you thrive in a fast‑paced, mission‑critical environment and want to make a tangible impact on national security, brighthush is the place for you.

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Senior Manager of Customer Program & Operations Excellence to lead our Customer Program team within a high‑velocity Just‑In‑Time (JIT) environment. In this role, you will own the full lifecycle of customer programs—from initiation through delivery and post‑delivery support—while driving cross‑functional collaboration and ensuring world‑class service. You will report directly to the Director of Program Management and work closely with engineering, logistics, quality, and sales to exceed customer expectations and deliver on commitments.

Why This Role Matters

Aerospace and defense supply chains are the backbone of national security. Every component, every shipment, and every decision can influence the outcome of a mission. As the Senior Manager, you will be the linchpin that aligns strategy, execution, and continuous improvement, ensuring that our customers receive the highest level of reliability, transparency, and value. Your leadership will shape the future of how critical logistics are delivered, making a direct contribution to the safety and effectiveness of our nation’s defense forces.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership: Own the end‑to‑end lifecycle of customer programs, including kickoff, execution, and post‑delivery support. Develop comprehensive program plans, budgets, and performance metrics that align with strategic objectives and drive measurable results.
• Team Management: Recruit, coach, and mentor a high‑performing team of program coordinators, analysts, and support staff. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and collaboration that empowers team members to excel.
• Customer Satisfaction: Serve as the primary point of contact for key customers, ensuring timely resolution of issues, proactive communication, and alignment with customer objectives. Build long‑term relationships that translate into repeat business and referrals.
• Process Improvement: Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in program workflows. Lead Lean Six Sigma initiatives to reduce cycle times, eliminate waste, and improve quality, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and profitability.
• Compliance & Quality: Maintain strict adherence to AS9100, ISO 9001, and other relevant quality standards. Conduct regular audits, manage corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement to ensure regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Utilize advanced Excel, Power BI, and other analytics tools to track KPIs, forecast demand, and provide actionable insights to senior leadership. Translate data into strategic recommendations that drive business growth.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Partner with supply chain, engineering, finance, and sales to align program objectives, resolve conflicts, and optimize resource allocation. Act as a liaison between internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Travel & On‑Site Presence: Travel to customer sites, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities as needed to conduct audits, workshops, and performance reviews. Represent brighthush with professionalism and technical expertise.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development of long‑term program strategies, including market analysis, risk assessment, and technology adoption plans.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with senior executives, government officials, and industry partners to secure program buy‑in and foster collaboration.
• Innovation & Technology Adoption: Champion the evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies—such as AI‑driven forecasting, blockchain for traceability, and autonomous logistics solutions—to maintain a competitive edge.
• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks, ensuring business continuity and resilience across the supply chain.
• Performance Management: Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for program health, customer satisfaction, and financial outcomes. Conduct regular performance reviews and adjust strategies accordingly.

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Operations, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in program or project management within a JIT or high‑volume manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of managing cross‑functional teams and delivering complex programs on time and within budget.
• Strong knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and other quality management systems.
• Advanced proficiency in brighthush Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) and experience with brighthush Copilot or similar AI‑enhanced productivity tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel up to 30% of the time.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a high‑pressure, mission‑critical environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Operations Research, or related discipline.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt) or PMP.
• Experience in the aerospace or defense sector, including familiarity with government contracting and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in ERP systems such as brighthush, brighthush, or brighthush.
• Experience leading remote or hybrid teams.
• Knowledge of advanced analytics platforms (e.g., Tableau, SAS) and data‑driven decision frameworks.
• Experience managing multi‑million dollar budgets and complex vendor relationships.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strategic Planning & Execution
• Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement
• Stakeholder Management & Negotiation
• Data‑Driven Decision Making
• Change Management
• Risk Assessment & Mitigation
• Team Building & Leadership Development
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Project Management Methodologies (Agile, Waterfall)
• Financial Acumen & Budgeting
• Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

At brighthush, we believe in investing in our people. As the Senior Manager, you will have access to a comprehensive learning and development program that includes:

• Leadership coaching and mentorship from senior executives.
• Paid certifications in Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or industry‑specific standards.
• Cross‑functional rotation programs to broaden your skill set.
• Annual performance reviews with clear career pathways to Director or VP roles.
• Participation in industry conferences, webinars, and professional associations.
• Access to an internal knowledge base and best‑practice library.
• Opportunities to lead innovation labs and pilot projects.
• Structured career development plans with milestone tracking.
• Recognition for high‑impact contributions and thought leadership.

Work Environment & Culture

brighthush fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and high‑performance culture. Our remote‑first approach allows you to work from anywhere in Texas or Florida while staying connected through weekly virtual huddles, real‑time collaboration tools, and quarterly in‑person retreats. We celebrate diversity, encourage innovation, and reward results. Our employees enjoy a healthy work‑life balance, flexible schedules, and a supportive community that values personal growth as much as professional success.

We are committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Our initiatives include reducing carbon footprints through optimized logistics, supporting STEM education in underserved communities, and partnering with veteran‑owned businesses. As part of the brighthush family, you’ll contribute to a mission that goes beyond profit—enhancing national security and fostering a better future for all.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits

• Competitive Salary: Market‑aligned base pay with annual performance bonuses.
• 401(k) Matching: Company match up to 5% of your contributions.
• Generous Paid Time Off: 20 days of vacation, 10 sick days, and 15 paid holidays.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, plus a wellness stipend.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with company contributions.
• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of paid maternity/paternity leave.
• Professional Development: Annual budget for conferences, courses, and certifications.
• Employee Assistance Program: 24/7 counseling and support services.
• Remote Work Flexibility: Option to work from home or a local co‑working space.
• Technology Stipend: Up to $1,200 per year for home office equipment.
• Recognition Programs: Quarterly awards for outstanding performance and innovation.
• Wellness Programs: Gym memberships, mindfulness sessions, and health challenges.
• Community Engagement: Paid volunteer days and community partnership opportunities.

Diversity & Inclusion

brighthush is dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We actively promote an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, respected, and empowered to contribute. Our hiring practices are designed to eliminate bias, and we provide ongoing training on inclusive leadership, unconscious bias, and cultural competency.

Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond logistics optimization. We invest in green technologies, reduce waste through circular supply chain practices, and partner with suppliers who share our environmental values. We also support educational initiatives that nurture the next generation of engineers, scientists, and logisticians.

Technology & Innovation

brighthush is at the cutting edge of logistics technology. From AI‑driven demand forecasting to blockchain‑enabled traceability, we continuously evaluate and adopt innovations that enhance efficiency, transparency, and security. As Senior Manager, you will lead the integration of these technologies into our customer programs, ensuring that we remain the industry’s benchmark for excellence.

Leadership Philosophy

Our leaders embody a servant‑leadership mindset, prioritizing the growth and well‑being of their teams while driving operational excellence. We value curiosity, accountability, and a data‑driven approach to problem solving. As Senior Manager, you will model these principles, inspiring your team to exceed expectations and deliver mission‑critical results.

Success Stories

Under the guidance of our Customer Program leaders, we recently reduced delivery lead times by 18% for a major defense contractor, resulting in a $12 million cost saving and a 95% on‑time delivery rate. These achievements underscore the impact of disciplined program management, cross‑functional collaboration, and relentless pursuit of improvement.

Team Structure

The Customer Program team is organized into three functional groups: Program Coordination, Data Analytics, and Quality Assurance. Each group reports to the Senior Manager, who ensures alignment with overall business objectives and fosters a culture of shared ownership.

Performance Metrics

Key performance indicators for this role include:

• On‑time delivery rate
• Customer satisfaction score (CSAT)
• Program budget variance
• Cycle time reduction percentage
• Compliance audit pass rate
• Employee engagement score

Onboarding Process

New hires undergo a structured onboarding program that includes:

• Orientation to brighthush culture, values, and mission.
• Technical training on brighth Apply for this job