Manager of Strategic Innovation and Technology Partnerships 3

Northrop Grumman Northrop Grumman · Aerospace · Falls Church, VA +1 · Operations (BD)

This role focuses on identifying, vetting, and integrating external emerging technologies, particularly in AI/ML and Quantum Computing, into Northrop Grumman's core mission systems. The Manager of Strategic Innovation and Technology Partnerships will act as a bridge between external innovators and internal R&D, managing partnerships, conducting due diligence, and tracking pilot project success. The role requires a strong technical background, experience in technology scouting or venture capital, and a Secret security clearance.

What you'd actually do

  1. External Ecosystem Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for the venture capital community, tech accelerators, and nontraditional defense contractors to identify, drive, and manage "dual-use" technologies and associated partnerships.
  2. Technology Scouting & Vetting: Lead cross-functional technical and business due diligence on emerging tech startups to assess their readiness, scalability, and strategic fit for Sector IRAD (Internal Research & Development) roadmaps.
  3. Partnership Frameworks: Enable complex partnership agreements, including Joint Development Agreements (JDAs), licensing, and pilot "sandboxing" initiatives ; Develop multi‑year partnership strategies.
  4. Strategic Alignment: Partner with Sector CTOs to ensure external innovation initiatives align with our long-term technology roadmaps.
  5. Formalize Engagement: Support the development and execution of a cohesive technology partnership program.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s Degree with at least 10 years of relevant experience OR a Master’s Degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in technology scouting, corporate venture capital, or strategic partnerships within the Aerospace, Defense, or High-Tech sectors.
  • Proven ability to translate complex emerging technologies(e.g., AI/ML, Quantum Computing, etc. ) into defense-specific mission applications and business terms.
  • Exceptional presentation skills with the ability to influence executive-level stakeholders.
  • Current U.S. Government Secret level security clearance (or higher)
  • Ability to obtain, and maintain, a U.S. Government Top Secret level security clearance

Nice to have

  • Existing relationships within the Silicon Valley/tech hub ecosystems or with government innovation units like DIU, AFWERX, or DARPA.
  • Experience in technical due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, or corporate venture investments.
  • PMP certification or experience managing government CRAD (Contractual R&D) programs.
  • MBA or a PhD in a relevant STEM field

What the JD emphasized

  • Secret
  • Secret
  • Top Secret