Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management

The Contracts and Asset Management Group at APL covers prime contracting, estimating and pricing, asset management, NDA and non-monetary agreement management, contract business systems, and contract closeout. The Deputy Head operates within a shared leadership model alongside the Group Head, with primary accountability for day-to-day operational execution across a dynamic and high-value portfolio.

The role also contributes to setting strategic priorities, coaching managers, building leadership capability across the group, and leading process modernisation initiatives including adoption of digital tools. The Deputy Head advises on complex contract strategy and regulatory interpretation under FAR and DFARS, and drives performance improvement through data and metrics.

• Oversee day-to-day operations of a large contracting organisation, ensuring compliant and timely execution across the portfolio.
• Partner with the Group Head to set priorities, align resources, and advance strategic initiatives.
• Coach managers and develop high-potential staff to build a strong leadership bench and a culture of accountability.
• Establish and use performance metrics to improve efficiency, transparency, and decision-making.
• Advise on complex contract strategy, negotiations, and FAR/DFARS regulatory interpretation, supporting resolution of high-impact issues.
• Lead process modernisation efforts, including adoption of digital and AI-enabled contracting tools.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• 10 or more years of experience in federal government prime contracting within the private sector.
• 5 or more years of leadership or management experience with demonstrated ability to manage teams and exercise sound judgement.
• Proven success negotiating complex contracts and developing contract and fee strategies.
• Deep knowledge of FAR and DFARS and their practical application in a high-value contracting environment.
• Ability to ultimately obtain a Top Secret level security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) applies world-class expertise to critical defence, security, space, and science challenges. Located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, APL operates with a strong culture of inclusion and innovation, offering generous benefits and a robust education assistance programme.