Andrew Phillips
Victor
Summary
Results-driven aerospace and defense leader with 15+ years of experience leading complex space and advanced technology programs from capture through execution. Proven ability to scale programs in small, agile organizations while managing multi-million-dollar portfolios across government and commercial customers. Hands-on, strategic leader with deep expertise in space-based optics and mission-critical systems, known for delivering disciplined execution, winning new business, and driving sustainable growth.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Program Manager
Safran Federal Systems
Rochester, NY
03.2025 - Current
- Led full-lifecycle program execution for advanced secure communications and personnel recovery programs, managing ~$25M+ in active and pipeline contracts across DARPA, Air Warrior, and U.S. Army stakeholders.
- Negotiated and closed multiple contracts, including the Secure Mode T&M and DARPA RoQS programs, directly supporting FY25 revenue objectives and positioning SFS for follow-on growth.
- Planned, kicked off, and executed the Secure Mode program, achieving on-time startup, maintaining >95% schedule adherence, and retiring key technical and contractual risks early in execution.
- Advanced Second Generation Beacon (SGB) efforts by securing CONUS & U.S. SAR use waivers, coordinating with AW and Army PRPO, and developing executable fielding strategies despite funding and contract gaps.
- Proactively engaged contracting officers to pursue zero-cost extensions and alternative funding paths, preventing program disruption and preserving ~$10M in future revenue opportunity.
- Led cross-functional teams of 20+ personnel across engineering, supply chain, operations, and BD, improving execution discipline and reducing issue resolution cycle time by ~30%.
- Strengthened SFS customer trust and strategic positioning by aligning technical delivery with operational needs, contributing to new captures and expanded mission scope in secure and advanced defense technologies.
Lead, Program Management
L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
Rochester, New York
12.2020 - 03.2025
- Develop and implement program management strategies to ensure successful delivery of projects and meet customer requirements.
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities in the precision optics market, leveraging industry expertise and client relationships to drive revenue growth.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and implement process improvements, resulting in increased efficiency and cost savings.
- Analyze market trends and competition to identify new growth opportunities for the precision optics product portfolio.
- Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with key suppliers and vendors to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply chain for precision optics products.
- Develop and manage the annual budget for the precision optics product portfolio, ensuring alignment with strategic growth plans and financial targets.
- Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive marketing strategy for the precision optics product portfolio, including market analysis, customer segmentation, and promotional activities.
Senior Program Manager
Rochester Precision Optics
West Henrietta, New York
07.2018 - 11.2020
- Develop and implement program management strategies to ensure successful execution of electro-optical projects.
- Identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities for electro-optical portfolios in military, commercial, and consumer applications.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior program managers to enhance their skills and knowledge in electro-optical project management.
- Lead cross-functional teams to develop and implement innovative lens technologies and coatings for improved optical performance in military, commercial, and consumer applications.
Project Manager
Gleason Automation Systems
Rochester, New York
02.2016 - 07.2018
- Provide leadership and guidance to cross-functional teams.
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and productivity across project teams.
- Collaborate with clients to identify project requirements and deliverables.
- Coordinate with stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, vendors, and internal teams, to ensure successful project execution and customer satisfaction.
Engineering Project Manager
Melles Griot
Rochester, New York
11.2014 - 02.2016
Senior Project Engineer
G.W. Lisk Company
Clifton Springs, New York
01.2013 - 10.2014
IPT Lead Product Engineer
Moog - Space and Defense
East Aurora, New York
03.2012 - 01.2013
Project Engineer
G.W. Lisk Company
Clifton Springs, New York
05.2005 - 03.2012
Education
Master of Science - Manufacturing and Mechanical Systems Integration
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NYBachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering Technology
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NYSkills
- Program Management
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Engineering Management
- Project Management
- Product Development & Management
- Earned Value Management
- Finance
- Business Intelligence
- Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Business Development
- Marketing (B2B)
- Customer Relationship Management
- Sales
- Budget Management
- Engineering Change Management
- ISO Quality Management System
- Procurement
- Hydraulic Actuation System
- Staff Resourcing
- Cross-functional Teams
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Lean Six Sigma (DFSS)
Timeline
Lead Program Manager
Safran Federal Systems
03.2025 - Current
Lead, Program Management
L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
12.2020 - 03.2025
Senior Program Manager
Rochester Precision Optics
07.2018 - 11.2020
Project Manager
Gleason Automation Systems
02.2016 - 07.2018
Engineering Project Manager
Melles Griot
11.2014 - 02.2016
Senior Project Engineer
G.W. Lisk Company
01.2013 - 10.2014
IPT Lead Product Engineer
Moog - Space and Defense
03.2012 - 01.2013
Project Engineer
G.W. Lisk Company
05.2005 - 03.2012
Master of Science - Manufacturing and Mechanical Systems Integration
Rochester Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering Technology
Rochester Institute of Technology