DIRECTOR OF SATELLITE PROGRAMS - SPACE MISSIONS LEADERSHIP

WHO WE ARE Etinars is a values-focused company with multi-year experience, specialized in the recruitment of professionals for niche markets - managing the full-life cycle of specialist and executive level hires. At Edda, we genuinely care about who you are and what you need. We place great emphasis on fostering robust, enduring connections built upon trust and transparency. Our approach ensures a swift journey, leading you hand in hand towards signing your next career step. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR Director of Satellite Programs - Space Missions Leadership Join a leading European space technology company at the forefront of satellite research, development, and operations. In this leadership role, you will oversee two major satellite programs: the procurement of a GEO telecommunication satellite and the development of an 8-unit remote sensing satellite constellation. You will be responsible for navigating complex technical, contractual, and operational challenges, ensuring successful program delivery and expanding future project pipelines. This role requires a seasoned leader with a strong background in spacecraft program management and the ability to manage high-stakes programs in collaboration with international stakeholders. YOUR TASKS As a Director of Satellite Programs, you will be responsible for: GEO Satellite Procurement: Leading all programmatic aspects of the GEO satellite project, ensuring contractual compliance and managing milestones from negotiations and contracting through to in-orbit delivery. Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation: Overseeing the HULEO program (8-unit satellite constellation), ensuring smooth coordination between space segments, ground segments, operations, and data analytics. Stakeholder Management: Serving as the primary point of contact for government and commercial stakeholders, ensuring their requirements are met while maintaining strong relationships. Cross-functional Leadership: Harmonizing efforts between portfolio companies and subcontractors, ensuring timely execution and alignment with technical requirements. Risk and Opportunity Management: Continuously identifying and managing risks and opportunities to ensure project success and implementing proactive strategies. Strategic Expansion: Leading the expansion of the company’s project pipeline, building on expertise developed in the GEO and LEO satellite programs. Program Documentation: Ensuring comprehensive documentation of all technical and contractual aspects and overseeing regular reviews and updates. International Collaboration: Working closely with international suppliers and partners, requiring periodic travel to ensure cohesive execution and stakeholder engagement. YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE To be successful in this role, you will need: Experience: At least 10+ years of program management experience in GEO/LEO spacecraft programs or similarly complex satellite projects. Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of spacecraft program delivery, including manufacturing, integration, and testing. Familiarity with electro-optical, SAR, and telecommunication mission technologies. Project Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead teams through complex program phases, ensuring delivery on time and within budget while meeting or exceeding technical specifications. Leadership and Coordination: Experience managing cross-functional teams across different geographical locations and coordinating efforts among suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders. Problem Solving: Ability to resolve complex technical and programmatic challenges while maintaining a proactive approach to risk mitigation. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with a variety of stakeholders, from engineers to government officials. Educational Background: A Master’s or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field. Knowledge of ECCS and ISO 9001 and EN/AS 9100 standards. Language: Fluency in English is required. EXTRA INFORMATION Permanent employment contract with a leading European space company. Salary range: € 100K -120K+ annual gross Opportunity to work on groundbreaking satellite programs with major global stakeholders. Flexible work environment with opportunities for travel and international collaboration. Location and teleworking option: Budapest, Hungary. Possibility to work two weeks on-site in Budapest and two weeks remotely from home, with expenses covered by the company. The ideal scenario is to have someone 100% based in Budapest. Competitive compensation package with premium benefits. Strategic leadership role with significant impact on the company’s future satellite initiatives. Please note that, due to the sensitive nature of the data involved, this position is currently available only to individuals who meet the following criteria: EU Citizens Non-EU Citizens already based in EU with a valid work permit Once we receive your CV, we will take time to evaluate it carefully. Should there be a match for this or any other position at Etinars, we will be in touch with you. In case there is no match now don’t worry, we will make sure to keep your CV in consideration for future vacancies! In Etinars we are committed to supporting Diversity and Inclusion Community. If you identify as part of it and you meet the minimum criteria for the job, you will be given the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities at an interview.