Capture and Proposal Manager

Capture Manager
Columbia, MD
Position Summary:
X8 is hiring a results-driven, mid-level Business Development / Capture Manager to grow our pipeline, lead capture, manage the pipeline and expand strategic teaming partnerships across our core and emerging markets. The successful candidate combines an established network of prime and subcontractor relationships with proven subcontracting expertise and hands-on command of the full Client and proposal lifecycle. In this role, you will convert high-value opportunities into awarded contracts while protecting and strengthening X8's competitive positioning. This is a hybrid position requiring a minimum of three in-office days per week for effective collaboration (unless otherwise engaged with customer meetings) and regular travel to engage with partners and customers.
What You Will Be Doing:
Build the Pipeline and Lead Capture

• Leverage established prime and subcontractor relationships to develop a collaborative pipeline of qualified opportunities.
• Lead capture strategies that position X8 competitively and convert high-value opportunities into awarded contracts.
• Identify and qualify opportunities using market intelligence and personal networks.
• Represent X8 at industry events and networking forums across the DMV, San Antonio, Huntsville, Augusta, and other target growth markets.

Secure and Grow Teaming and Subcontracts

• Target, secure, and cultivate teaming and subcontract partnerships that align with X8's mission and expand our market presence.
• Negotiate workshare and scope with prime contractors to protect X8's positioning, secure meaningful task allocation, and maximize revenue.
• Drive increased workshare and revenue on existing subcontract agreements through deliberate strategy and strong advocacy.
• Serve as the lead interface for NDAs, teaming agreements, MSAs, and subcontract documentation.
• Champion efficient subcontract execution and a seamless transition to program teams to ensure performance and compliance.

Drive Proposals and Cross-Functional Execution

• Build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships with Client, recruiting, finance, and program teams to ensure seamless coordination throughout the capture and proposal cycle.
• Execute rapid-turn proposal development (24 72 hours) to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
• Lead Business Development meetings and Gate Reviews with Client leadership.
• Maintain accurate pipeline tracking.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5 10 years of business development, capture, and/or subcontracting experience in the federal/defense market.
• Hands-on, demonstrated experience executing and improving the full Client and proposal lifecycle.
• An established network of prime and subcontractor relationships in relevant federal and defense markets.
• Proven subcontracting expertise, including negotiation of workshare, scope, and agreements (NDAs, teaming agreements, MSAs, and subcontracts).
• Proficiency with GOVWIN, SAM.gov, and market intelligence tools.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, rapid-turn environments.
• Impeccable organizational skills, attention to detail and time management.
• Must be able to work independently, clearly communicate, and collaborate with coworkers.
• U.S. citizenship and willingness to travel up to 25 50% to industry events and target markets.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active security clearance (Secret or higher) preferred; ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a secret security clearance.
• Prior experience as a military officer or DoD/federal program practitioner.
• Existing relationships within target agencies/commands (e.g., Cyber Command, ARCYBER, Army Futures Command, intelligence community).
• Familiarity with Shipley or comparable capture/proposal methodologies.
• Track record of contributing to winning IDIQ, GWAC, or task-order competitions.

What We Offer:

• $140,000+ - commensurate with experience and existing relationships, plus a performance-/win-based incentive.
• 401(k) match 10%.
• Paid time off 24 PTO days, 13 holidays.
• Medical benefits 100% employee, 80% dependent, $1,000 company-paid HSA contribution.