Senior Policy & Strategic Planning Advisor (SME III – Policy / Plans) 2026P-0273
Ascension LLC is seeking a Senior Policy & Strategic Planning Advisor to provide high-level analytical and advisory support for defense planning, policy alignment, and strategic initiatives. This role supports mission-critical planning efforts aligned with DoD frameworks such as JROC, JCIDS, JQRR, and Integrated Priority Lists (IPL).
The selected candidate will serve as a senior subject matter expert responsible for shaping policy analysis, aligning strategic planning efforts, and ensuring synchronization across stakeholders, leadership, and operational planning cycles. This role requires deep expertise in defense planning, national security policy, and strategic advisory services.
This position aligns with Ascension’s core strengths in strategic advisory, policy development, program analysis, and stakeholder coordination, supporting complex federal missions.
Key Responsibilities / Day-to-Day Activities
- Lead policy analysis and strategic planning efforts aligned with DoD mission priorities and planning cycles
- Advise senior leadership on policy implications, risks, and strategic alignment across planning initiatives
- Develop strategic planning artifacts, including briefing materials, white papers, and executive reports
- Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders to ensure alignment across policy, planning, and operational efforts
- Facilitate meetings, working groups, and senior-level briefings to support decision-making
- Manage deliverables, schedules, and reporting requirements, including Monthly Status Reports (MSRs)
- Analyze defense planning frameworks (e.g., JCIDS, JROC processes) to inform recommendations
- Synthesize complex data and policy inputs into actionable insights and strategic recommendations
- Ensure quality control of deliverables and adherence to established timelines (including 5-day turnaround requirements)
- Support development of planning guidance, roadmaps, and implementation strategies
- Identify risks, gaps, and opportunities in policy and planning alignment
How to Apply
CLICK HERE TO APPLY & SUBMIT YOUR RESUMEJob Features
| Job Category | Project Management, Workforce Planning |
| Minimum Requirements | Bachelor’s Degree in Public Policy, National Security, International Relations, or related field | Minimum 5+ years of relevant experience in defense policy, strategic planning, or national security analysis |
| Required Skills | Demonstrated experience supporting DoD planning processes (e.g., JCIDS, JROC, IPL, or similar frameworks) | Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret complex policy environments |
| Technical Skills | Experience developing executive-level briefings and strategic documentation | Proven ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders and organizations | Strong written and verbal communication skills | Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word, Excel) |
| Desired Skills | Master’s Degree in National Security Studies, Public Policy, or related discipline|Experience supporting Combatant Commands (e.g., CENTCOM) or Joint Staff environments | Familiarity with force structure planning, capability development, and requirements analysis | Experience supporting Integrated Priority Lists (IPL) or capability gap assessments | Knowledge of operations research, mission analysis, or modeling techniques | PMP, DAWIA, or related professional certification | Experience supporting senior executive-level decision-making environments |
| Sustainability Requirements | Active Secret Clearance (Required) | Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret clearance (Preferred) |