About the role
Imagine this. You are leading complex defence programmes where advanced aerospace and defence systems move from engineering development into testing, qualification, certification and operational delivery. You bring structure to complexity, connect technical teams with customer requirements, and make sure critical programmes keep moving forward.
At Destinus, we are developing and delivering advanced interceptors and strike systems designed for the evolving demands of modern defence operations. Our technologies combine speed, autonomy, precision and advanced engineering to deliver mission-critical capabilities for defence customers worldwide. We work at the edge of what is technically possible, turning ambitious concepts into systems built to perform in demanding operational environments.
As our Defense Program Manager, you will take ownership of strategic defence programmes in the Netherlands, coordinating closely with customers, engineering, operations, testing and leadership teams.
This role sits at the intersection of defence, engineering and programme delivery. We are looking for someone who understands complex military programmes and can successfully lead advanced defence systems through development, testing, qualification, certification and delivery.
Requirements
What You’ll Do
Lead complex defence programmes, taking ownership of execution, planning and delivery
Build trusted relationships with customers and key external stakeholders, acting as a strong interface between their requirements and our internal teams
Coordinate multidisciplinary teams across engineering, operations, testing, production and other programme functions
Translate customer and operational requirements into clear priorities and deliverables for technical teams
Manage programme scope, milestones, dependencies, risks, budgets and deliverables
Drive programmes through development, testing, qualification and certification activities
Ensure alignment between customer expectations, operational requirements and engineering development
Identify programme risks early and drive practical solutions across technical, operational and stakeholder challenges
Represent Destinus in meetings with government, military, industry and other relevant stakeholders
Contribute to strengthening Destinus' long-term position within the European defence ecosystem
What You’ll Need
Significant experience managing complex defence, military, aerospace or advanced technology programmes
Experience working with interceptors, strike systems, weapons systems, missiles, military platforms or comparable complex defence technologies
Demonstrated experience taking military or defence systems through development, testing, qualification and certification
Strong understanding of defence programme environments, including the technical, regulatory and operational requirements involved in delivering military systems
Good technical understanding and the ability to work effectively with engineering and product development teams
Strong programme management capabilities across planning, risk management, stakeholder management and cross-functional coordination
Ability to communicate effectively with senior customer stakeholders and highly technical engineering teams
Strong relationship-building skills and the credibility to represent Destinus with senior external stakeholders
Professional fluency in Dutch and English
Who You Are
You are comfortable taking ownership of complex, high-stakes programmes where technical performance, customer expectations and delivery timelines all need to come together. You bring structure without creating unnecessary bureaucracy and know how to keep multidisciplinary teams moving toward a common goal.
You combine a pragmatic, hands-on mindset with enough technical depth to challenge assumptions, understand engineering constraints and make informed decisions. You thrive in fast-moving environments where there is still plenty to build, define and solve.
Security screening is an integral component of the selection process, ensuring that candidates meet the organization's security standards and safeguarding against potential risks.
Providing a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) is a standard part of the application process at Destinus.
