ABOUT CDN
Creative Defense Network (CDN) works with the Department of War to enable acquisition transformation on the front lines. We work with acquisition executives and professionals to shape strategies and provide them with leading tools and training to succeed.
We’re focused on enabling the DoW to deliver better capabilities faster by applying novel approaches and working closely with industry and operators. We’re running one of the defense community's most widely read publications with over 16,000 subscribers. We’re a small startup have a big impact on transforming Department operations.
ABOUT THE ROLE
As our first Business Operations Manager, you'll own the internal engine that keeps CDN running. That means managing our government contracts end-to-end, overseeing billing and financial tracking, coordinating vendor relationships, and building the operational infrastructure a fast-growing defense startup needs to scale.
You'll work directly with the CEO and COO handling the operational complexity so they can stay focused on clients, content, and growth. This is a high-trust role with real autonomy and room to build.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Contract Operations
→ Own execution across our government contract portfolio to include OTs, FAR-based, T&M, and FFP vehicles. Issue and manage subcontracts.
→ Track performance against scope, funding ceilings, and period of performance across all active contracts.
→ Flag risks early: cost overruns, funding gaps, scope creep, and compliance issues before they become problems.
Billing and Financial Management
→ Oversee billing processes including labor-hour, T&M, and fixed-price structures.
→ Validate labor charges, indirect rates, and cost allocations before invoices go out.
→ Monitor burn rates, obligated vs. expended funds, and funding ceilings across the portfolio.
→ Maintain DCAA-compliant documentation for timekeeping, billing records, and cost tracking.
Vendor and Partner Coordination
→ Serve as primary POC with our outsourced HR and operational service providers.
→ Manage relationships proactively ensuring nothing falls through the cracks on your watch.
→ Coordinate with subcontractors, teaming partners, and other service providers as needed.
Workforce and Resource Planning
→ Track labor use and availability across programs and contracts.
→ Partner with the CEO and COO to forecast staffing needs and adjust allocations as work evolves.
→ Support budget forecasting at the contract and portfolio level.
Systems and Internal Coordination
→ Maintain and improve systems for time tracking, billing, and resource planning.
→ Keep operational and financial data accurate and consistent across platforms.
→ Support ERP/CRM integration as we scale (Deltek Costpoint or Unanet familiarity a plus).
→ Support program reviews and internal reporting.
Security Management
→ Implement facility and personnel security policies and procedures.
→ Manage physical security operations, access control systems, and incident response activities.
→ Monitor classified material handling, storage, and destruction procedures.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required
→ 5+ years in business operations, program control, or finance in a government contracting environment.
→ Bachelor's degree in business, finance, operations, or related field or equivalent work experience.
→ Hands-on experience supporting billing for government contracts.
→ Strong grasp of resource allocation and workforce planning across multiple contracts.
→ Proficiency with financial tracking, Excel, AI, and reporting tools.
→ Proactive and highly organized. You manage many workstreams simultaneously without dropping the ball.
Preferred
→ Experience with defense programs or DoD customers.
→ Familiarity with FAR/DFARS and government contract types.
→ Experience with DCAA-compliant systems and audit support.
→ Proficiency with ERP systems such as Deltek Costpoint or Unanet.
→ Working knowledge of indirect rates, cost pools, and government accounting practices.
WHY CDN
CDN is remote-first, with most meetings in the Northern Virginia / DC area. Expect up to 10% travel for in-person engagements. You'll be joining a small team with a big footprint requiring close coordination with leadership, real ownership of your domain, and direct visibility into the full business.
If you want to do meaningful work in defense without the bureaucracy of a large firm, CDN is built for you.