James Salter
Virginia Beach,VA
Summary
Creative Senior Program Manager with over 30 years of exceptional background ship modernization industry. Proven success building and motivating program teams to meet project goals. Demonstrated leadership in systems implementation, program execution and process improvement engagements. Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.
Overview
25
25
Years of US Naval service
32
32
Management professional experience
Work History
Senior Program Manager
L3Harris Technologies
Norfolk, VA
03.2007 - 02.2024
- Since 2007, Program Manager for L3Harris. Providing financial and management support for projects totaling over $275M.
- Facilitated stakeholder communication, leading to improved alignment between business objectives and program goals.
- Managed cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality products within scope and budget constraints.
- Conducted risk assessments to identify potential issues early in project lifecycle, mitigating potential delays or setbacks.
- Developed comprehensive project plans, resulting in successful on-time delivery of multiple programs.
- Mentored and supported 105 engineering, logistical, training and tradesmen department employees to create strong workplace culture.
- Managed installations, coordinated ILS systems, reviewed ship installation drawings for new construction and in-service fleet units and provided deliverables for over 475 installation projects
- Managed support of installation and testing of Integrated Training Systems for 32 new construction ships.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for organization's needs.
- Reduced program costs through diligent budget management and identifying areas for cost savings.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
- Successfully managed budgets totaling over $275M and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.
Officer-in-Charge
Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Detachment Norfolk
Norfolk
05.2005 - 03.2007
- Oversaw daily operations of 45 personnel, ensuring smooth execution of tasks and timely completion of projects.
- Fostered positive work environment by cultivating strong relationships among team members and promoting open communication channels.
- Directed command operations in support of Original Equipment Manufacturer System Developers, introducing new technology to Fleet
- Maintained strict compliance with regulations, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures.
Ship's Gunner
USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71)
Norfolk
05.2003 - 05.2005
- Managed maintenance and operations of all of ship's armament and ammunition storage facilities including all ammunition, bombs, and missiles stockpiled to support embarked air wing
- Managed annual departmental budget ranging from $200K to $500K
- Served as Weapons Department Manager of extensive Planned Industrial Availability involving over 253,000-man hours of ship's force work
- Oversaw extensively industrial maintenance for combat systems working with Carrier Planning Activity and Planning Yard to develop integrated availability schedule
- Represented stakeholders (CNAL staff) on Software Review Panels and Explosive Review Boards for development and approval of new Combat System configurations for CVNs
- Provided effective communication during operations, maintaining clear lines of communication with command and fellow gunners.
- Researched and recommended significant changes in Force Protection requirements, resulting in cost savings of over $290K.
Director of Naval Gunfire
Expeditionary Warfare Training Group
Virginia Beach
05.2001 - 05.2003
- Managed, coordinated integrated master schedule for Naval Gunfire training and qualifications for entire Atlantic and Pacific fleet
- Critiqued and developed 4 new courses of instruction for Fleet Introduction, bridging Joint Force weapons and architecture
- Served as member of team that developed innovative and revolutionary new technologies that interfaced with Legacy Gun Weapon Systems, providing new means for Shipboard training and qualification.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within organization.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
Combat System Test Officer
USS COLE (DDG-67)
Norfolk
05.1998 - 05.2001
- Mentored 20 junior staff members, helping them develop their skills and advance in their careers.
- Oversaw operation and maintenance of shipboard Combat Systems and weapons system for two deployments, including removal effort of damaged caused by terrorist attack in Yemen.
Cruise Missile Instructor/Inspector
Afloat Training Group Mayport
Mayport
12.1993 - 01.1998
- Trained mentored 480 personnel in combat operations and tactics using shipboard cruise missile systems.
- Promoted positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent classroom management techniques.
Education
High School Diploma -
Skills
- Scope Management
- Problem-solving skills
- Project Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Training and mentoring
- Risk Management
- Process Improvement
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Budget Management
- Professional and Courteous
- Financial Management
- Customer Service
Certification
Project Management Professional | In progress; completion by 05/31/24
Timeline
Senior Program Manager - L3Harris Technologies
03.2007 - 02.2024
Officer-in-Charge - Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Detachment Norfolk
05.2005 - 03.2007
Ship's Gunner - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71)
05.2003 - 05.2005
Director of Naval Gunfire - Expeditionary Warfare Training Group
05.2001 - 05.2003
Combat System Test Officer - USS COLE (DDG-67)
05.1998 - 05.2001
Cruise Missile Instructor/Inspector - Afloat Training Group Mayport
12.1993 - 01.1998
George County High School - High School Diploma,