Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar-powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr. This is where high-altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities. Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. About The RoleThe Public Affairs & Communications Director will shape AALTO's reputation and stakeholder influence as the business scales Stratospace. Reporting to the VP Sales and Marketing and partnering closely with the CEO, the role leads public affairs, communications and senior stakeholder engagement across priority markets. This is a high-profile opportunity for a strategic leader who can secure trust, influence complex environments and support AALTO's commercial and regulatory success. Lead AALTO's global public affairs strategy, securing regulatory access and market confidence.· Define AALTO's external narrative around funding, operations, commercial progress and strategic milestones.· Lead corporate communications across media, executive positioning, employee engagement and leadership messaging.· Partner with the CEO and CFO on investor communications, fundraising narratives and strategic positioning.· Shape executive communications for employees, board audiences and leadership forums.· Own crisis communications and issues management, advising leaders on sensitive reputational matters. Skills and Knowledge Required· Senior experience across government relations, public affairs and corporate communications.· Strong communications judgement across policy, commercial, investor, media and employee audiences.· Exceptional writing skills, including speechwriting, scripting and executive messaging.· Commercial acumen and understanding of how reputation supports growth and market access.· Ability to balance strategic storytelling with regulatory sensitivity and operational credibility.· Deep crisis communications and issues-management expertise.· Credible leadership capability with strong relationship-building skills.· Experience engaging senior government, regulatory, trade body and industry stakeholders.· In addition to an attractive market-aligned salary, we offer: Rewarding Excellence: Benefit from our short-term incentive plan that rewards your hard work and dedication. Enjoy Your Time Off: Benefit from 25 days of holiday to relax and recharge. We've got your health covered with private medical insurance, along with dental and optical cash back. Secure Your Future: Take advantage of our personal pension plan to ensure a comfortable retirement. Peace of Mind: Our income protection and life assurance schemes are there to support you when you need it most. Drive the latest vehicles with our discounted salary sacrifice scheme. We Care About You: Our employee assistance programme is always available to provide the support you need. Enjoy a range of employee discounts via Perkbox, from household goods to travel! Or are you concerned that 'normal' office hours aren't possible given your personal circumstances? Whilst we can't accommodate every flexible working request, we'll try to find a practical solution.
Communications Director in Orpington employer: AALTO HAPS
AALTO is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Farnborough where innovation meets aerospace excellence. As part of Team AALTO, you'll enjoy a culture that values collaboration and creativity, alongside comprehensive benefits such as private medical insurance, generous holiday allowances, and a personal pension plan. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to employee well-being, AALTO is dedicated to unlocking your potential while you contribute to pioneering advancements in Stratospace.
