Space & Defence Strategy & Market Development Manager

CS GROUP is a leading European provider of digital systems and engineering services for space and defence organisations, operating as a subsidiary of Sopra Steria with over 2,000 employees worldwide. This role strengthens CS GROUP's Space and Defence Consulting activities in Germany, working at the intersection of strategic advisory, market development, and technology analysis for institutional, governmental, and commercial clients. The postholder will shape and advance CS GROUP's consulting strategy across the European space and defence ecosystem — tracking regulatory and programmatic trends at ESA, the EU, and national level, identifying capability gaps, and translating them into consultancy offerings spanning upstream, midstream, and downstream segments. The role explicitly includes engagement with space security, resilience, satellite navigation, Earth observation, and military space as thematic areas, and requires close coordination with the Sopra Steria Defence team. A key dimension of the role is consultative market development: early identification and structuring of project opportunities including Phase 0/A studies, R&D projects, and feasibility studies, alongside thought leadership contributions (white papers, conference presentations, and sector publications) to build the organisation's visibility in the European space policy and defence community. EU citizenship or an unrestricted EU work permit is required, as is willingness to undergo a German security clearance process.

Degree in political science, public affairs, engineering, natural sciences, or MBA Demonstrated professional experience in the space and/or defence consulting or advisory environment Strong analytical, conceptual, and methodological consulting skills with ability to communicate complex issues clearly Fluent German and English (both mandatory at negotiation level) EU citizenship or unrestricted EU work and residence permit Willingness and personal suitability to undergo a German security clearance (Sicherheitsueberprüfung) Willingness to travel within Germany and Europe Desirable: experience advising public sector clients and familiarity with European institutional procurement processes Desirable: thematic expertise in Earth observation, satellite navigation, space security, resilience, cyber security, or military space Desirable: prior experience with the Bundeswehr or sound understanding of military structures and requirements processes