Lead, Subcontracts

Title: Lead, Subcontracts
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Job Type: Full Time/Permanent

Job Description:
The Subcontracts Lead is responsible for overseeing the entire life cycle of subcontracts, from initial sourcing and acquisition strategy development to solicitation, negotiation, award, cost and schedule management, subcontractor execution, and closeout. The role involves working across diverse customer segments, including commercial, defense, and international sectors. Subcontracts at the company encompass a variety of technologies, products, and services for development, production, and technical/professional services.

Additionally, the Subcontracts Lead supports business development activities by initiating the Subcontract Process, including negotiating non-disclosure and/or teaming agreements, and performing due diligence on potential suppliers regarding risk, financial stability, technical capability, and quality management. Subcontracts also provide support for internal and external audits as required.

Essential Functions:

• Lead all aspects of major subcontract execution, including cost, schedule, technical, and quality, ensuring integration of subcontract work scope within the program.
• Serve as a subject matter expert with advanced knowledge of various contract types (e.g., FFP, Cost Reimbursement, T&M, CPFF, CPIF) and government proposals.
• Demonstrate advanced negotiation skills and subcontractor management expertise, with a focus on program risk management.
• Review and analyze technical SOWs, ensuring clarity and eliminating ambiguity in requirements.
• Maintain advanced knowledge of relevant regulations, including FAR/DFAR, Prime Contract flow downs, international trade compliance, ITAR, EAR, import/export regulations, and legal documents.
• Collaborate with internal functions, including Contracts, Program Management, Finance, Engineering, Quality, and Business Development, to support subcontract management.
• Analyze program changes, communicate issues to Program and Supply Chain Executive Leadership, and manage high-value proposals and subcontracts.
• Work with technical teams to identify and propose process improvements, risk mitigation strategies, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience, or a graduate degree with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a minimum of 13 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 9 years of experience in Subcontract Management.
• In-depth knowledge of FAR/DFAR requirements and related policies and procedures.

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Experience as a Cost Account Manager for Subcontracts, managing budgets and sales forecasting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite of Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Lean Six Sigma experience.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and exceptional communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to adapt and focus on customer needs.