European Space Agency (ESA)
The European Space Agency is seeking a visionary executive leader to serve as Director of Commercialisation and Industry Partnership — one of the most senior and consequential roles in European space governance. Reporting directly to the Director General and serving as a member of the ESA Executive Board, this Hors-Classe appointment sits at the strategic apex of ESA's engagement with European industry, the global space economy, and the growing ecosystem of commercial space actors. The Director will define and drive ESA's commercialisation and business development strategy, overseeing major programmes including ARTES 4.0, the European Launcher Challenge (ELC), Boost!, and the ACCESS programme (Accelerating Commercialisation and Competitiveness of the European Space Sector). The role encompasses international market expansion for European space companies, facilitation of access to public and private investment, downstream application development, and strategic coordination across ESA Directorates. Beyond programme management, the postholder will act as ESA's primary relationship manager for top-tier industry leaders, institutional partners, Member State delegations, and international stakeholders — with a mandate to translate Europe's space investments into sustainable economic value, industrial competitiveness, and strategic autonomy. Regular on-site presence at ECSAT Harwell is required regardless of duty station. ESA member state nationality is required; psychometric testing and security screening apply.
Master's degree in law, economics, business administration, or a relevant technical discipline More than 10 years of experience in senior executive management, including leadership of large teams and significant budgets in an international context Deep understanding of challenges and opportunities related to the commercialisation of technology or space-related programmes Well-established network among key space-industrial stakeholders in Europe and worldwide Proven track record in developing new business areas and leveraging financial resources Knowledge of ESA's institutional framework and the European and international space sector Excellent negotiation, relationship management, and senior leadership communication skills in English and/or French Nationality of an ESA Member State required (Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, or United Kingdom) Further information at directorsrecruitment@esa.int