At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global government relations and shape AALTO’s external narrative.
- Company: Join AALTO, a pioneering Airbus subsidiary in Stratospace technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a fantastic bonus scheme, and a competitive pension plan.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace while enhancing AALTO's reputation globally.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in government relations and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar‑powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr. Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time. Its current flight‑time record is over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60 000+ ft, or 20 km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct‑to‑device connectivity and high‑resolution Earth observation. AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most air traffic and low‑Earth orbit, Stratospace. Here high‑altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. AALTO can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities. Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. You’ll be part of a highly‑skilled, innovative and passionate group of people – Team AALTO. Together, we can unlock Stratospace.
Purpose
The Director, Global Affairs & Communications is responsible for protecting and enhancing AALTO’s reputation. This includes guiding the business’s external positioning, government relations & public affairs, and corporate communications (internal and external). Reporting to the VP Sales, with a strong functional interface with the CEO, the role ensures coherent, credible, and high‑impact engagement with governments, executive‑level members of regulators, global media, and strategic stakeholders. This is a senior level role required to shape AALTO’s external and internal narratives, secure its licence to operate, and support commercial and regulatory success.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead global government relations and public affairs strategy, focusing on securing regulatory approvals and sovereign access.
- Act as primary interface with governments, regulators, and political stakeholders across key markets (e.g., UK, Kenya, Australia).
- Define and execute AALTO’s external narrative aligned with business milestones (funding rounds, operational progress, commercial validation).
- Oversee all external and internal corporate communications, including media relations and executive messaging.
- Support CEO and CFO in investor communications and strategic positioning for fundraising.
- Enable market entry strategies through targeted political engagement, stakeholder mapping, and advocacy.
- Act as a senior spokesperson and prepare executive leadership for key external engagements.
- Act as a senior spokesperson and prepare executive leadership for key internal engagements (e.g., monthly all‑hands).
Key Competencies
- Strong experience in government relations, public affairs or corporate communications.
- Proven ability to engage and influence senior external stakeholders.
- Excellent communication and narrative‑building capability.
- Strong business acumen and understanding of commercial drivers.
- Ability to balance strategic storytelling with operational credibility.
- Leadership and team‑building capability.
- Proven track record in managing media and communications.
Success Measures
- Improved regulatory access and strengthened government relationships.
- Clear, credible, and consistent external narrative aligned with company progress.
- Increased investor confidence and support during funding cycles.
- Enhanced visibility and positioning of AALTO in priority markets.
- Successful support of market entry and commercial partnerships.
Benefits
At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values your well‑being and rewards your dedication. As part of our team, you'll experience the freedom of flexible working that enables you to achieve a healthy work‑life balance. We believe in recognising your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability.
Equal Opportunity Employer
AALTO HAPS Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.
Global Affairs & Communications Director in Farnborough employer: AALTO HAPS
AALTO is an exceptional employer located in Farnborough, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working arrangements, a rewarding bonus scheme, and a competitive pension plan, AALTO fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, empowering its team to thrive in the exciting field of Stratospace. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in aerospace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Affairs & Communications Director in Farnborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at AALTO. You never know who might help you land that interview!
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Dive deep into AALTO’s mission and recent projects. Understanding their goals and challenges will help you tailor your conversations and show how you can contribute to their success in Stratospace.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the spotlight! As a potential Director, you’ll need to showcase your communication skills. Practice articulating your vision and strategies clearly, as well as how you’ve successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of Team AALTO and contributing to our exciting journey in Stratospace.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Affairs & Communications Director in Farnborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in government relations and corporate communications. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at AALTO!
Showcase Your Storytelling Skills:Since the role involves shaping narratives, include examples of how you've successfully communicated complex ideas to different audiences. We love a good story that demonstrates your impact!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at AALTO!
How to prepare for a job interview at AALTO HAPS
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into AALTO's mission and the specifics of the Zephyr platform. Understand its applications in government relations and public affairs. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Craft Your Narrative
Prepare a compelling personal narrative that showcases your experience in government relations and corporate communications. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully influenced stakeholders or shaped narratives, as this role requires strong storytelling skills.
✨Engage with Confidence
As a senior spokesperson, you'll need to demonstrate confidence in your communication style. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially on complex topics like regulatory approvals and market entry strategies.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in AALTO's strategic direction and challenges. Inquire about their approach to building government relationships or how they plan to enhance their external narrative. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also in the company's future.
