Head of the Satellite Programmes Department - Job Opportunity at European Space Agency

Noordwijk, Netherlands
Full-time
Executive
Posted: February 3, 2025
On-site
EUR 120,000 - 180,000 per year based on ESA grade band A6 and location

Benefits

Permanent contract with leading space agency
International work environment
Career mobility opportunities
Professional development programs
Comprehensive ESA benefits package

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic satellite program partnerships with public/private entities
Manage space system procurement and implementation
Direct telecommunications satellite project lifecycles
Oversee ground control segment development
Guide technical program development and risk management
Drive international stakeholder relationships

Requirements

Education

A master's degree in a relevant domain

Experience

Extensive experience in satellite development and space project management

Required Skills

Multi-disciplinary knowledge of satellite design Space project development management Industrial costs and schedule management Complex project risk management ESA and EU procurement knowledge Space mission operations expertise High-level stakeholder management Result Orientation Operational Efficiency Fostering Cooperation Relationship Management Continuous Improvement Forward Thinking
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Industry Trends

Increasing commercialization of space sector driving need for public-private partnership expertise Growing focus on satellite constellations for global connectivity solutions Emergence of new space technologies requiring adaptive program management Rising importance of secure communications in space infrastructure

Role Significance

Large department managing multiple project teams and international stakeholders
Top executive position with direct impact on European space capabilities and international collaboration

Key Projects

Strategic telecommunications satellite developments Public-private partnership space initiatives Ground control segment implementations Technology innovation programs

Success Factors

Strong leadership in complex international environment Deep technical understanding combined with strategic business acumen Ability to navigate public and private sector requirements Excellence in stakeholder management across multiple countries

Market Demand

High demand due to expanding space sector and limited pool of qualified executives with both technical and management expertise in satellite programs

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Strategic program management combining technical and business aspects International stakeholder management in complex political environment Risk management in high-stakes space projects

Beneficial Skills

Experience with emerging space technologies Commercial space sector understanding Public-private partnership structuring

Unique Aspects

Matrix organization transition offering unique organizational development opportunity
Direct influence on European space capabilities
Intersection of public service and commercial space sector
High-level international stakeholder engagement

Career Growth

Typical tenure 5-7 years with potential for directorate-level promotion

Potential Next Roles

Director of Space Operations Chief Technical Officer Program Director at Major Space Company Space Industry Consultant

Company Overview

European Space Agency

Leading intergovernmental space research and technology organization in Europe

Premier space agency with significant influence on global space industry development
Central role in European space activities with global collaboration networks
Professional, multinational environment focused on scientific excellence and innovation
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