At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic development and policy for the UK space sector, influencing key stakeholders.
- Company: ADS, a leading trade association for aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on strategic influence and sector growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the UK space industry and engage with high-profile decision-makers.
- Qualifications: Expertise in national security, defence space policy, and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
The Role
ADS is the trade association advancing the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, representing more than 2,000 organisations across a diverse and growing membership. With around 40% of members having a significant interest in the space sector, this is an exciting opportunity to join an influential organisation at a pivotal time for the industry. We are seeking an experienced and ambitious Head of Strategic Development - Space to shape and drive ADS’s strategy and policy agenda for the global space sector.
As a recognised subject matter expert, you will lead the development of influential policy positions, build consensus across a complex and energised stakeholder community, and strengthen ADS’s reputation as a trusted voice with government and industry. Working closely with senior stakeholders across Government, industry and international partners, you will develop thought leadership that informs policy, supports sector growth and promotes the UK’s commercial and strategic interests in space. You will represent ADS nationally and internationally, engage with major organisations and agencies, and play a leading role in shaping the future direction of the UK space sector.
Reporting to the Director of Space, you will collaborate across ADS, including colleagues in Aerospace, Defence, Security, Policy and Government Affairs, as well as with Farnborough International and international counterparts. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence policy, engage with high-profile decision-makers and contribute to the long-term success of a strategically important industry.
The Candidate
You will bring significant expertise in national security and defence space policy, coupled with a detailed understanding of the UK and international space landscape. You will have experience developing policy positions, conducting research and analysis, and translating complex information into practical recommendations and compelling advocacy positions. An exceptional communicator, you will be comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders across Government, industry and representative organisations.
You will have a strong track record of building credibility, influencing outcomes and bringing diverse groups together around shared objectives. You will possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills, strategic thinking capability, and the confidence to represent ADS at national and international forums. Alongside your technical expertise, you will demonstrate integrity, sound judgement and a collaborative approach, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a high-performing team.
Experience engaging with government ministers, senior officials, international organisations or trade associations is a prerequisite for this role, as is a deep understanding of NATO's evolving space agenda and related policy frameworks.
The Contract
- Contract Type: Permanent, full-time role, Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week
- Location: London Head Office
- Reports to: Director of Space
Head of Strategic Development - Space in London employer: ADS GROUP
ADS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where you can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the UK space sector. With a strong focus on employee growth and collaboration, we provide opportunities to engage with high-profile stakeholders and contribute to meaningful policy development, all while being part of a supportive team that values integrity and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Strategic Development - Space in London
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with ADS GROUP for a Head of Strategic Development - Space. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategic Development - Space in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at ADS GROUP, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At ADS GROUP, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at ADS GROUP
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with ADS GROUP.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with ADS GROUP. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like ADS GROUP love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
