Vice President of Operations /COO

Chief Operating Officer (COO) / VP of Operations

Work for an exciting and growing U.S. VTOL Drone - Aerospace company. With a great leadership team, incredible employee appreciation- look what we have to offer you!

COMPANY PROFILE:

• Aerospace and defense technology company developing next-generation hydrogen-powered UAV systems, providing extended flight endurance and unmatched operational efficiency.
• We are dedicated to revolutionizing drone capabilities with hydrogen power, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and advanced mission delivery.
• We offer a range of drones, each designed to exceed expectations in their field. From agriculture to national security.

THE ROLE YOU WILL PLAY:

Seeking a strategic and entrepreneurial operational leader to scale U.S. operations while integrating with the company's Israeli division. The ideal candidate has aerospace expertise, particularly in UAV/VTOL drone programs, with experience managing government-funded projects and engaging major industry players. This high-impact COO/VP of Operations role requires both tactical execution and strategic growth leadership to transition the company into a scalable, growth-oriented operation.

The role may be designated as VP, SVP, or COO depending on the candidate's experience, with compensation aligned accordingly.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and integrate U.S. operations with the established 40-person Israeli division, ensuring streamlined growth and operational consistency.
• Lead scaling efforts, transitioning the U.S. team (currently ~15 employees) from a small-business mindset to a growth-oriented approach.
• Establish operational best practices, ensuring efficiency, cost management, and rapid scalability.
• Optimize supply chain and manufacturing to ensure quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and procurement strategies.
• Ensure smooth execution of major defense and government drone programs, including high-profile initiatives like Angel Ghost and Replicator.
• Act as a customer-facing operational leader, building credibility with key stakeholders, defense agencies, and strategic partners.
• Support business development efforts, aligning operational capacity with market demands.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and software teams to integrate next-generation UAV technology into operational workflows.
• Work with finance teams to manage budgets, forecasts, and financial planning for operational expansion.
• Drive workforce development, hiring, and leadership training across U.S. and international teams.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace and defense industry regulations, particularly for hydrogen-powered UAVs.
• Manage certifications and regulatory approvals to support expansion into government and commercial markets.

WHY JOIN US?

• Shape the future of UAV operations by leading a fast-growing aerospace company at the forefront of hydrogen-powered drone technology.
• Lead the transformation of a U.S. division while integrating with a mature international team.
• Competitive executive compensation package, with flexibility in salary, equity, and incentives based on experience and company culture fit.

Come along for the ride and help us "Pioneer the Skies with Purpose"!

BACKGROUND PROFILE:

• 7-10 + years of experience in aerospace, UAV, VTOL, or defense operations, with a focus on scaling and integrating international teams.
• 5+ years' experience leading government-funded defense programs.
• Proven track record of scaling operations in high-growth aerospace environments.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain, manufacturing, and operational efficiency strategies.
• Experience working with large aerospace/defense companies, bringing credibility to a growing organization.
• Experience managing teams across multiple locations, particularly U.S. and international markets.
• Familiarity with Department of Defense procurement processes and regulatory requirements.
• Bachelor's Degree, MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.