Program Manager

Senior Program Manager role at Destinusgroup in Zürich, CH, focusing on strategic aerospace and defense programs. Requires 15+ years in program management within regulated industrial environments, with P&L responsibility and aerospace/defense experience. Full-time, onsite position.

This role leads complex, strategic programs in the aerospace and defense sector, aligning customer needs, business goals, and operational execution. The Program Manager bridges technology, production, finance, and customer success, driving program strategy, financial performance, and risk mitigation while shaping the future of unmanned aerial systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of strategic programs, from contract award to delivery, ensuring alignment with business goals, customer needs, and operational capacity.
• Manage program financials including P&L, budgeting, forecasting, cost control, margin optimization, and financial reporting.
• Create and implement program strategies that balance customer demands, technical goals, commercial objectives, and operational limits.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with customers, government bodies, partners, and internal leadership as the main program contact.
• Identify, evaluate, and proactively reduce risks across technical, operational, financial, contractual, and supply chain areas.
• Lead cross-functional teams spanning engineering, production, procurement, quality, and operations to ensure successful execution.
• Track program progress using KPIs, milestones, and financial data, initiating corrective actions when necessary.
• Support contract negotiations, change management, and commercial discussions throughout the program’s life.
• Ensure adherence to contractual terms, regulatory standards, and internal governance policies.
• Promote continuous improvement to enhance program delivery, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Aerospace, Industrial Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years in Program Management, Senior Project Management, or Business Management roles in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or highly regulated industrial settings.
• Proven experience managing P&L, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and profitability for programs.
• Track record of leading large, complex programs with multiple stakeholders and international teams.
• Solid grasp of risk management practices and program governance frameworks.
• Experience in customer-facing roles, including managing executive stakeholders and executing contracts.
• Background in production and industrial environments, with knowledge of manufacturing and supply chain operations.
• Mandatory experience in the aerospace and defense industry.
• Strong commercial insight to balance technical, operational, and financial priorities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities.
• Fluency in English is required.

Nice to have

• Additional European languages are considered an advantage.

What the company offers

• Work on innovative aerospace projects that are redefining the industry.
• Collaborate with leading engineers from around the globe.
• Experience the energy of a fast-growing company.
• Contribute to shaping the future of flight.

About the company

Destinus is transforming the defense industry through advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), working with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide. The company pushes boundaries in time, space, and human potential.

• Innovative approach to aerospace and defense technology.
• Global partnerships with government and defense entities.
• Commitment to advancing the limits of flight and engineering.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• Certificate of Conduct