VP, Loitering Munitions Systems (Business Unit)

Worker Type Regular Job Description VP, Loitering Munitions Systems (Business Unit) Summary AeroVironment (AV) is seeking an experienced, visionary Vice President to lead our Loitering Munitions Systems (LMS) Business Unit within the Precision Strike and Defensive Systems Group. This position is based in our Southern California Simi Valley location, reporting to the Senior Vice President, General Manager, Precision Strike & Defensive Systems. This senior executive will be accountable for driving business growth, operational excellence, and strategic execution across a rapidly evolving, high-impact portfolio that directly supports U.S. and allied national security objectives. The VP, LMS will own the end-to-end lifecycle of loitering munitions products and programs—from concept development and customer engagement through engineering, manufacturing, delivery, and long-term sustainment. This role will translate AV’s mission into operational reality by fielding capabilities that materially improve warfighter effectiveness and allied readiness. This role requires deep domain expertise in aerospace and defense, a strong record of leading large, technically complex P&L organizations, and the ability to align product innovation with emerging threat environments and customer mission needs. Position Responsibilities Develop and execute the strategic vision and long-term growth roadmap for the LMS Business Unit, in alignment with AV’s corporate strategy, with a clear focus on winning strategic programs/captures and expanding our market position. Full P&L responsibility for the LMS Business Unit, including revenue, margin, cash, and investment decisions. Own and deliver the Annual Operating Plan (AOP), driving consistent revenue growth, margin improvement, and disciplined cost management. Lead product strategy and roadmap, ensuring our loitering munitions portfolio maintains clear technical and operational differentiation in the market. Oversee successful execution of development, production, and sustainment programs, with a strong focus on cost, schedule, technical performance, quality, and customer satisfaction, while standing up or maturing critical capabilities in coordination with operations (e.g., new manufacturing lines, new variant fielding, improved on-time delivery). Ensure rigorous compliance with all applicable government regulations (e.g., ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS), internal policies, and the highest ethical standards. Build and sustain trusted relationships with key customers, including U.S. and international defense agencies, military services, and prime contractors. Partner closely with Business Development and Capture teams to shape opportunities, lead key captures, and expand into adjacent markets, mission sets, and technology applications. Attract, develop, and retain a high-performing leadership team; build strong leadership and technical bench strength across the organization. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement. Represent LMS and AV at senior customer meetings, industry forums, and internal executive reviews. Travel frequently within the U.S. and internationally, as required. Perform other related duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience) Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in defense, aerospace, or advanced technology, with deep knowledge of loitering munitions, uncrewed systems, or closely related systems. At least 7–10 years of progressive people-leadership experience, including direct responsibility for senior leaders. Demonstrated success leading high-growth, complex P&L business units or portfolios. Deep knowledge of U.S. Department of Defense procurement processes (e.g., JCIDS, PPBE, acquisition lifecycle), international defense markets, and classified programs. Established relationships with senior defense officials, military services, acquisition communities, and other key stakeholders. Proven ability to lead high-performing, multidisciplinary teams spanning engineering, operations, program management, and business development. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Advanced degree (MBA, MS, or related) highly preferred. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences. Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills; able to evaluate trade-offs, prioritize effectively, and make sound decisions under pressure. Strategic, forward-thinking mindset—able to anticipate future requirements, explore multiple courses of action, and adapt decision-making to changing circumstances. Inspiring leadership style that motivates and empowers people to deliver ambitious organizational goals while supporting their growth and engagement. Demonstrated ability to translate organizational values into daily behaviors, creating a shared vision and strong sense of purpose. Proven track record as a change champion—driving transformation, promoting agility, and helping teams navigate and embrace change. Special Requirements U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) required Must be able to travel within the Continental U.S. and internationally when required Ability to obtain Secret clearance with the ability to obtain Top Secret clearance Clearance Level Secret The salary range for this role is: AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.