Description
Background and Overview
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge, cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking an accomplished national security leader to serve as Senior Defense Advisor and will be based out of our Arlington, VA office. This individual will be focused on advancing U.S. defense policy, acquisition reform, and modernization initiatives that accelerate innovation to the warfighter. This role will help shape and inform the evolution of defense acquisition pathways.
This is a senior advisory position intended for a defense professional with deep experience in acquisition strategy, systems development, and defense innovation - someone who can help influence how the Department buys, builds, and deploys software and systems at scale. This position reports directly to the CEO.
All applicants must currently possess an active U.S. Security Clearance
Responsibilities
- Serve as senior advisor on defense policy, acquisition reform, and modernization trends affecting the DoD and defense industrial base.
- Engage with DoD leadership, think tanks, and industry forums to shape and advocate for practical policy reforms that enable faster technology delivery and fielding.
- Provide thought leadership and expert analysis on emerging DoD acquisition initiatives.
- Lead or contribute to white papers, policy briefs, and public-private working groups focused on accelerating defense innovation and acquisition agility.
Minimum Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in public policy, management, or related field preferred.
- 15+ years of senior experience within the Department of Defense, national security community, or defense industry - ideally including policy, acquisition, or legislative engagement roles.
- Demonstrated expertise in defense acquisition policy, resourcing processes (PPBE), and modernization initiatives.
- Proven ability to develop and communicate strategic positions on complex defense issues to senior government, industry, and congressional audiences.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to produce and present policy analysis and recommendations at the executive level.
- Active or recent Secret or higher clearance (or eligibility to obtain).
Required Skills & Competencies
- Deep understanding of DoD governance frameworks, acquisition and budget processes, and the defense innovation ecosystem.
- Strategic and analytical thinker with ability to assess policy implications and design actionable reform recommendations.
- Skilled communicator capable in senior forums.
- Strong network within DoD and the broader policy community.
- Ability to bridge technical understanding with policy and acquisition decision-making.
- Executive presence, judgment, and integrity consistent with engagement at the highest levels of defense leadership.
- Ability to travel as needed up to 15%
EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.
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Innovative Defense Technologies
Oct 27, 2025