A Senior Director of Capture is a pivotal executive-level role responsible for leading the strategic pursuit and acquisition of major new business contracts, primarily within government, defense, and large-scale commercial sectors. This high-stakes position sits at the intersection of business development, strategy, and operations, acting as the quarterback for complex, high-value opportunities. Professionals in these jobs are tasked with transforming potential leads into secured revenue by orchestrating every phase of the capture lifecycle, from initial identification through to proposal submission and award. For organizations seeking substantial growth, hiring a skilled Senior Director of Capture is often the decisive factor in winning transformative contracts. The core responsibility of a Senior Director of Capture is to develop and execute a winning capture strategy for specific, qualified opportunities. This involves conducting thorough competitive and customer analysis to understand the landscape, crafting compelling win themes that differentiate their organization, and building strategic alliances through teaming agreements with partners and subcontractors. They lead cross-functional teams, coordinating closely with proposal managers, technical subject matter experts, pricing analysts, and senior executives to align resources and messaging. A significant part of the role involves direct customer engagement to shape requirements, understand priorities, and build relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders. Ultimately, they own the capture plan, ensuring the final proposal is not only compliant but powerfully conveys the unique value proposition. Typical requirements for Senior Director of Capture jobs are extensive. Candidates generally possess 15+ years of progressive experience in capture management, business development, or program management within relevant industries like federal contracting, defense, or intelligence. A bachelor’s degree is standard, with advanced degrees often preferred. Expertise in formal capture methodologies, such as the Shipley process, is highly valued. The role demands exceptional strategic thinking, analytical skills for market and competitor assessment, and superior leadership abilities to guide diverse teams under tight deadlines. Financial acumen to oversee pricing strategies and a deep understanding of complex procurement regulations (e.g., FAR/DFAR) are essential. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills are non-negotiable, as is the ability to obtain and maintain high-level security clearances for roles in the national security domain. This career path is ideal for results-driven leaders who thrive on competition and derive satisfaction from securing landmark contracts that define an organization's future.
