The CSIS Defense and Security Department seeks a Director of the Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group (DIIG) to lead, manage, and direct the Defense and Security Department’s (DSD) work on the defense industrial ecosystem. The Director will also contribute to the program’s mission by conducting high-quality and impactful research and analysis, participating in and shaping the policy dialogue, engaging with external stakeholders, participating in fundraising efforts, and contributing to program and institutional operations.
Essential duties and responsibilities
Essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:
Research
Lead a team of researchers to provide in-depth analysis on the defense industrial base, the defense acquisition system, defense technologies, defense trade, defense industrial cooperation, and related subjects;
Manage multiple research projects including planning and executing the research, leading the preparation, writing, editing, publication, and distribution of research and analysis—including significant papers, program studies, data presentations, videos, journal and newspaper articles, briefs, and commentaries.
External Engagement
Lead the organization and execution of conferences, workshops, and roundtables on a variety of defense topics relevant to both DIIG and DSD. Interact regularly with leadership at the CEO and Senior Vice President level in the defense industry and related industry associations, including corporate members of CSIS;
Engage regularly with U.S. government and foreign government leaders;
Serve as a recognized expert on defense industrial base, defense acquisition, defense technology, defense trade, and related issues at a wide range of events at CSIS and in other venues in Washington, nationally, and internationally;
Provide expert commentary and analysis to media outlets.
Fundraising and Operations
Participate in activities of the Defense and Security Department working closely with the President and Vice President and engage collaboratively and constructively with other program directors at CSIS in the execution of joint projects. Secure funding for and manage the budget and staff of the DIIG program, including hiring, day-to-day management, and mentorship;
Identify project contract and grant opportunities and lead efforts to create and submit proposals to funders;
Serve as a mentor to junior staff at CSIS and works to promote a diverse, inclusive, and respectful community at CSIS.
Ability to lead and manage a team of professionals including a mix of junior and senior staff;
Ability to write and edit research reports, concept papers, business correspondence;
Must possess strong communication skills including the ability to effectively present information, with special emphasis on visual presentation, and respond to questions from constituency groups, media, governmental entities, and the general public;
Requires extensive knowledge of defense acquisition and the defense industrial base.