David Sarnoski

• Led a 124-person department responsible for the research, development, and execution of over $100M in investment funds
• Oversaw a diverse team of 120 personnel across government, military, and contractor roles, specializing in RDT&E
• Delivered executive-level guidance to the Director, Deputy Director, and Division Heads on operational strategies, test plans, and technology integration to ensure the alignment of defense projects with mission-critical goals
• Managed 176 concurrent RDT&E projects with a focus on driving innovation, defining end-user requirements, and facilitating technology solutions for defense operations
• Directed the execution of over $150M in investment funds, ensuring financial resources were aligned with the long-term strategic goals of the department
• Led efforts to design, test, and integrate new technologies into operational systems, ensuring thorough evaluation through developmental and operational testing
• Cultivated and maintained strategic relationships with DoD agencies, national laboratories, civilian organizations, and academic institutions, fostering a collaborative environment to address operational challenges
• Oversaw government acquisition processes, guiding contracting officers to ensure compliance with appropriation laws and that project requirements were captured in contracts
• Led talent management, including recruitment and development, to build a high-performing team focused on meeting defense innovation objectives
• Spearheaded the coordination of RDT&E projects, resulting in successful alignment of technology development efforts with defense priorities, ensuring $150M in investment funds were effectively utilized
• Implemented process improvements that enhanced collaboration between internal teams and external partners, accelerating technology development and integration timelines
• Directed the development of comprehensive test plans, ensuring successful testing of new technologies to improve operational efficiency and mission readiness
• Led cross-functional teams to deliver results across complex projects, aligning time, cost, and technology readiness to meet or exceed expectations

• Led a highly specialized 5-person team overseeing seven distinct Military Freefall Training programs within U.S
• Special Operations Command (SOCOM)
• Directed all aspects of training operations, from resource allocation and logistics to safety management and fiscal oversight, ensuring the successful execution of over 25,000 training jumps
• Managed the coordination of over 100 personnel across diverse roles, including military, civilian, contractor, and medical teams, at remote training locations
• Directed and coordinated the execution of seven Military Freefall Training programs, facilitating over 25,000 successful training jumps while maintaining operational excellence, safety standards, and efficiency
• Managed a $7M annual program budget, overseeing the allocation of resources for training, travel, operations, maintenance, and education, ensuring financial stewardship and support for mission-critical operations
• Led logistics and personnel coordination, ensuring timely and safe execution of training at remote locations by organizing transportation, equipment movement, and contractor management
• Developed and updated comprehensive training curricula, ensuring that all materials aligned with operational requirements and maintained high standards of quality and relevance
• Directed the development of load plans and manifests, calculating aircraft limitations based on environmental variables to ensure the safe and effective execution of all training missions
• Coordinated the procurement of military aircraft, instructor support, and other training-related services, managing contracts to optimize performance and minimize operational disruptions

• Led a high-performing, 24-member team in a dynamic and time-sensitive environment, ensuring mission success and fostering a culture of excellence
• Managed all aspects of training, professional development, and career progression for team members while strategically overseeing operational resources, risk management, and financial execution
• Directed the integration of multiple organizations into daily operations, aligning efforts with strategic goals and optimizing performance across the board
• Led a 24-member team in a high-pressure environment, consistently achieving organizational objectives and optimizing team performance through strategic leadership and guidance
• Managed a $650,000 annual budget, overseeing resource allocation, cost control, and the financial execution of training, operational, and personnel activities, ensuring efficiency and alignment with organizational goals
• Developed and executed training schedules that were aligned with both short-term and long-term strategic goals, improving team readiness, capability, and operational success
• Spearheaded the integration of multiple organizations into daily operations, promoting cross-functional collaboration and enhancing alignment with broader organizational objectives
• Led professional development and career progression initiatives for team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence while enhancing individual and collective performance
• Managed both operational and enterprise-level risks, developing and implementing effective risk mitigation strategies to ensure project success and team performance

Job Summary:
As an Operations Chief in the U.S. Navy SEAL teams, I was responsible for overseeing the daily operations and strategic planning of the team. The Operations Chief ensures that mission objectives are achieved by managing training, personnel readiness, operational planning, and execution. They provide guidance and direction to junior leaders, ensuring that all team members are prepared for the unique and high-risk missions that SEALs are called to undertake.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership:
  Lead and manage a Navy SEAL team’s operational activities, including mission planning, execution, and post-mission debriefs. Oversee all aspects of mission preparation, ensuring readiness for both special operations and combat missions.
• Training and Readiness:
  Direct the training and development of SEAL team members, ensuring they maintain peak physical condition, operational readiness, and proficiency with specialized tactics, techniques, and procedures. Develop and implement training schedules that cover a wide range of skills, from advanced combat operations to specialized missions.
• Personnel Management:
  Supervise and mentor SEAL operators and junior leaders, providing career guidance and performance feedback. Foster a culture of teamwork, discipline, and accountability to ensure high standards of performance and professionalism.
• Mission Planning and Coordination:
  Oversee detailed mission planning, ensuring that all SEAL operations are strategically coordinated, well-supported, and executed in alignment with command objectives. Collaborate with other military units, government agencies, and international partners to support mission success.
• Logistical Oversight:
  Manage the logistics and equipment necessary to support SEAL operations, including transportation, communication, medical support, and tactical gear. Ensure that team members are well-equipped and prepared for various operational environments.
• Risk Management and Safety:
  Assess and mitigate risks associated with high-stakes missions, ensuring safety protocols are in place. Supervise risk assessments and debriefs to refine tactics and ensure continuous improvement.
• Liaison and Communication:
  Serve as the primary liaison between SEAL teams and higher command levels, communicating operational progress, challenges, and mission outcomes. Report on team performance and mission results, providing recommendations for improvement.
• Command and Control:
  Act as a key advisor to senior leadership, offering strategic recommendations on operational planning, tactical execution, and personnel management. Ensure alignment with broader military objectives while leading the operational elements of the SEAL team.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

• Extensive SEAL Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of service with at least several deployments in various operational environments, demonstrating a high level of technical and leadership expertise.
• Leadership Abilities: Proven ability to lead teams in high-stress and dynamic environments, with a strong focus on decision-making, problem-solving, and mission success.
• Operational Expertise: Deep knowledge of military tactics, training, and operational procedures, including counter-terrorism, direct action, reconnaissance, and special operations.
• Physical and Mental Resilience: Strong physical fitness, mental toughness, and the ability to perform under pressure.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate mission plans and requirements.
• Security Clearance: Active security clearance, with the ability to work in classified and sensitive environments.

Work Environment:
The role involves working in highly dynamic and sometimes austere environments, both on land and at sea, often requiring deployment to remote or hostile areas. The SEAL Operations Chief may be required to travel extensively and operate in challenging, high-risk situations.

This position is critical for ensuring the operational success and continued effectiveness of Navy SEAL teams in executing complex and high-stakes military missions.