
BLACKMERE CASE STUDY:
Executive Vice President, National Security Programs
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Client Overview:
Our client, a prominent Research and Development organization dedicated to advancing national security solutions, focuses on addressing complex, global security challenges. With a mission that spans national, homeland, and energy security, they needed an experienced technical leader to manage their national security programs and lead a multidisciplinary team in applying science and engineering to critical projects.
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Challenge:
This critical role required an executive with deep technical expertise, proven leadership abilities, government connections, and experience in a research-focused environment to oversee their national security programs. Role requirements included:
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At least 15 years of progressive experience in scientific and technical leadership, with 10 years in applied research and development management.
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A master’s degree in engineering or science, with a preference for a PhD in a STEM field or an MBA.
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Strong experience working with defense contractors and government agencies, particularly the Department of Defense.
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Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior executives, sponsors, and multidisciplinary teams.
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Financial acumen and the ability to drive value through strategic program management.
The ideal candidate needed to balance visionary leadership with practical problem-solving, driving innovation to enhance the organization’s capacity to meet the nation’s evolving security needs.
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Solution:
Blackmere’s experience in technical executive recruitment and our deep understanding of the national security landscape enabled us to create a tailored search strategy focused on finding candidates who could drive both technical innovation and strategic growth. We prioritized candidates with the technical knowledge, leadership experience, and mission-driven mindset needed for the role.
Our approach included:
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Targeted Search in National Security and R&D Leadership: We focused on identifying senior leaders with extensive experience in applied research, particularly those with a background in laboratory or defense settings. Candidates with a track record of working with government agencies and defense contractors were prioritized.
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Assessment of Strategic and Collaborative Skills: Given the role’s emphasis on collaboration with national security executives and sponsors, we evaluated candidates’ ability to communicate complex ideas to varying audiences, develop program strategies, and lead cross-functional teams.
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Cultural Fit and Innovation-Driven Mindset: Recognizing the client’s commitment to innovation in national security, we prioritized candidates who demonstrated a proactive, solution-focused approach to R&D. We also sought individuals who could navigate and drive change effectively in a mission-oriented environment.
Result:
Blackmere successfully placed an experienced technical leader who met the client’s high strategic and technical expertise standards. This executive brought a strong background in applied research and a proven track record of program development, positioning them as a key asset to the organization. Their ability to communicate effectively with both technical teams and high-level sponsors ensured a seamless transition into the role.
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Impact:
Since joining, the new leader has:
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Led the organization’s national security programs with strategic foresight, guiding critical projects that address complex security challenges on a national and global scale.
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Fostered strong partnerships with government and industry stakeholders, aligning program goals with the nation’s evolving security priorities.
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Contributed to the organization’s long-term systems and research strategy, advancing its mission as a center of excellence in national security.
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Developed and implemented a change-driven approach to program management, increasing operational efficiency and value for customers while driving innovative solutions in line with emerging security needs.
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Key Takeaways:
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Blackmere’s strategic recruitment approach enabled the client to secure a technical executive with the expertise, strategic vision, and leadership capabilities needed for this high-impact role.
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Our emphasis on cultural fit and innovation ensured a smooth integration, enabling the new hire to lead effectively and drive meaningful change across the organization.
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Blackmere’s understanding of the national security landscape allowed us to deliver a candidate who continues to make a lasting impact, strengthening the organization’s ability to address critical security challenges.
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CASE PROFILE
Company:
A leading research organization advancing solutions for national, homeland, and energy security through science and engineering.
Industry:
National Security Contractor
Challenge
Finding a seasoned technical leader with government connections, strategic vision, and proven program management expertise to oversee critical national security initiatives.
Solution
Blackmere conducted a targeted executive search, focusing on candidates with applied research experience, government collaboration skills, and a mission-driven approach to innovation.
Impact
The new EVP has driven strategic program development, strengthened government partnerships, and advanced the organization’s mission, positioning it as a leader in national security innovation.
Client Testimonials:
CFO: "We just had the most amazing all-hands meeting here today... We are making such an impact. It’s mind-blowing. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!"
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COO: "You. Are. AMAZING!! You totally delivered a unicorn, and [candidate] is amazing. Well done!!"
Through strategic talent acquisition and confidential search processes, our firm played a critical role in strengthening our clients' cybersecurity capabilities, enabling them to navigate complex cyber threats and drive organizational success with confidence.
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