Director of Operations with Security Clearance

Position Title: Director of Operations
Reports To: VP, Finance and Operations
Location: Fredericksburg VA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary The Senior Director of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing organizational compliance and IT infrastructure within a defense-focused government contracting environment. This position ensures full alignment with ISO 9001, CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification), and all applicable DoD regulatory standards. The Director leads internal quality and IT functions and supervises team members tasked with executing cybersecurity compliance programs, including CMMC implementation. This role combines strategic oversight with operational execution to drive security, quality, and performance across the organization. Key Responsibilities
Compliance & Quality Management
• Serve as the leader for ISO 9001 compliance, quality systems, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain and enhance the company's ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) and prepare for annual surveillance and recertification audits.
• Provide leadership oversight for CMMC compliance efforts, including supervising the staff member responsible for day-to-day implementation and maintenance.
• Coordinate with the CMMC compliance lead to ensure all documentation, processes, and technical safeguards align with NIST SP 800-171 and DFARS requirements.
• Oversee internal audit planning, nonconformance resolution, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Monitor changes in regulatory and customer requirements and adjust organizational policies accordingly.
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
• Oversee the IT department and ensure infrastructure supports both operational needs and cybersecurity requirements.
• Ensure implementation of security policies, technical safeguards, and IT best practices that support CMMC readiness and maintain protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
• Manage relationships with external vendors and MSPs for secure, reliable IT services.
• Guide enterprise IT strategy, including infrastructure upgrades, cloud services, business continuity, and incident response planning.
Operational Leadership
• Lead strategic operational initiatives that improve quality, efficiency, security, and compliance across the company.
• Collaborate with the executive team on risk management, resource planning, and contract support strategies.
• Supervise and mentor direct reports in compliance and IT roles, fostering professional development and accountability. Qualifications Education & Experience
• Bachelor's degree
• 7-10+ years of leadership experience in corporate operations, compliance, and/or IT in a defense or government contracting environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing ISO 9001 QMS and overseeing teams executing CMMC/NIST 800-171 compliance efforts.
• Familiarity with government contracting regulations including FAR and DFARS. Preferred Certifications
• Security+ Skills & Attributes
• Strategic and operational thinker with a hands-on leadership style.
• Strong understanding of defense industry standards, cybersecurity frameworks, and IT infrastructure.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams through audits, assessments, and certification processes. Security Clearance
• U.S. Citizenship required
• Active Secret Clearance preferred or ability to obtain and maintain one is required