Director of Operations
Position Title: Director of Operations
Reports To: VP, Finance and Operations
Location: Fredericksburg, VA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
At RPI, we believe in doing meaningful work that makes a difference—every day. In this leadership role, you'll have the opportunity to shape operational excellence while being supported by a team that values integrity, growth, and mutual success—because when you thrive, so do we.The Senior Director of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing organizational compliance and IT infrastructure within a defense-focused government contracting environment. This position ensures full alignment with ISO 9001, CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification), and all applicable DoD regulatory standards. The Director leads internal quality and IT functions and supervises team members tasked with executing cybersecurity compliance programs, including CMMC implementation. This role combines strategic oversight with operational execution to drive security, quality, and performance across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Compliance & Quality Management
Serve as the leader for ISO 9001 compliance, quality systems, and continuous improvement initiatives
Maintain and enhance the company’s ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) and prepare for annual surveillance and recertification audits
Provide leadership oversight for CMMC compliance efforts, including supervising the staff member responsible for day-to-day implementation and maintenance
Coordinate with the CMMC compliance lead to ensure all documentation, processes, and technical safeguards align with NIST SP 800-171 and DFARS requirements
Oversee internal audit planning, nonconformance resolution, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPAs)
Monitor changes in regulatory and customer requirements and adjust organizational policies accordingly
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Oversee the IT department and ensure infrastructure supports both operational needs and cybersecurity requirements
Ensure implementation of security policies, technical safeguards, and IT best practices that support CMMC readiness and maintain protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
Manage relationships with external vendors and MSPs for secure, reliable IT services
Guide enterprise IT strategy, including infrastructure upgrades, cloud services, business continuity, and incident response planning
Operational Leadership
Lead strategic operational initiatives that improve quality, efficiency, security, and compliance across the company
Collaborate with the executive team on risk management, resource planning, and contract support strategies
Supervise and mentor direct reports in compliance and IT roles, fostering professional development and accountability
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree
7–10+ years of leadership experience in corporate operations, compliance, and/or IT in a defense or government contracting environment
Demonstrated experience managing ISO 9001 QMS and overseeing teams executing CMMC/NIST 800-171 compliance efforts
Familiarity with government contracting regulations including FAR and DFARS
Preferred Certifications
Security+
Skills & Attributes
Strategic and operational thinker with a hands-on leadership style
Strong understanding of defense industry standards, cybersecurity frameworks, and IT infrastructure
Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
Proven ability to lead teams through audits, assessments, and certification processes
Security Clearance
U.S. Citizenship required
Active Secret Clearance preferred or ability to obtain and maintain one is required