At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategy and secure high-value partnerships in the UK Space Sector.
- Company: Satellite Applications Catapult, a leader in space innovation.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the space industry while driving impactful commercial success.
- Qualifications: Proven sales experience and deep knowledge of the UK Space ecosystem.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Role Overview
Reports to: Chief of Missions. The Satellite Applications Catapult (the Catapult) is organised into three Mission areas: Beyond Earth, Autonomous and Connected Earth, and Resilient Earth. Each Mission is tasked with developing a strategic portfolio of interventions that represent the highest opportunity for growth in the space sector. We are seeking a dynamic, strategic Commercial and Partnerships Director to secure, develop and deliver commercial and collaborative opportunities that strengthen our position to support the growth of businesses within the UK Space Sector.
Role Purpose
As Commercial and Partnerships Director you will report to the Chief of Missions and be accountable for shaping and delivering the Catapult’s commercial strategy (20%), managing the sales pipeline and analysing performance (20%), building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders across the UK (25%), leading a large team (20%) that includes sales operations, business development and work‑winning services, and reporting on revenue targets and KPIs to the Executive team (15%).
Key Responsibilities
- Refine and implement the Catapult’s revenue strategy plan ensuring total alignment with organisational Missions and national space ambitions.
- Accountable for commercial success, securing high‑value contracts and high‑impact partnerships that fuel the UK space economy.
- Provide commercial leadership and governance on major bids and proposals, ensuring solutions are robust, professional and strategically and financially sound.
- Build strong relationships with C‑Level equivalents to close strategic deals and optimise convergence of key opportunities.
- Lead and manage the commercial leadership team to grow revenue‑generating opportunities, identifying emerging opportunities and shaping them into unique value propositions.
- Coach and mentor the team, providing development opportunities and support to expand capabilities and maximise resources.
- Coordinate cross‑functional teams to deliver commercial outcomes, ensuring Mission Leads and commercial teams operate in total synergy.
- Maintain oversight of the sales pipeline, budgets and financial forecasts, overseeing pricing and revenue, negotiating contracts and managing risk.
- Forecast, monitor and report KPIs and strategic milestones, ensuring the commercial engine remains accountable to the Catapult’s broader mission impact.
- Act as an escalation point to resolve issues and deliver creative commercial solutions to meet business objectives.
- Serve as a spokesperson for the Catapult at conferences, strategic forums and industry events, identifying opportunities for the Space industry to raise visibility.
Essential Experience & Knowledge
- Proven track record of sales from demand creation to securing high‑value and high‑impact contracts.
- Deeply entrenched within the UK Space ecosystem, with a sophisticated network of relationships and expert understanding of funding, market dynamics and emerging opportunities.
- Expert knowledge of space and satellite technology and ability to articulate their value in solving complex real‑world challenges.
- Leadership ability to mobilise and inspire senior cross‑functional teams in a complex matrix environment.
- Significant experience shaping and executing commercial strategies in technology‑led environments.
- Extensive experience building trusted relationships and translating customer strategies into actionable technical requirements.
- Exceptional leadership and communication skills, acting as a trusted advisor to senior government officials and industry CEOs while maintaining internal alignment.
- A high‑impact public speaker and storyteller capable of translating complex technical concepts into compelling narratives.
- Expertise overseeing the development of high‑stakes proposals and value propositions that provide strategic solutions beyond selling.
- Creative and analytical thinker adept at navigating ambiguity and designing customer‑centric solutions for multi‑faced national challenges.
Desirable Experience & Knowledge
- Working knowledge of dual‑use technologies and strategic understanding of their role in national security, sovereign capability and global economic competitiveness.
About us & how we work
We strive to create a high trust, high performance and inclusive environment that enables team members to bring their whole selves to work and fosters an innovation culture. Our shared values are: care for people, partners and planet; connect and engage with people and ideas; learn and grow as an industry.
Benefits
We offer a hybrid policy designed around collaboration, with one 'anchor' day per week working with your direct team and another flexible day per week to collaborate or work with other colleagues.
EEO Statement
At Satellite Applications Catapult, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome candidates from all corners of the globe, although visa sponsorship availability depends on interest and salary level.
Commercial and Partnerships Director in Harwell employer: Satellite Applications Catapult
The Satellite Applications Catapult is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration within the UK Space Sector. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and mentorship, ensuring our team members thrive in their roles. Our inclusive culture, combined with a hybrid working policy, allows for flexibility while maintaining strong connections with colleagues, making it a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
Contact Detail:
Satellite Applications Catapult Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial and Partnerships Director in Harwell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the UK Space Sector. Attend industry events, join relevant forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to C-Level executives on LinkedIn. Building those relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you’re at events or meetings, don’t just talk about your past roles—share insights on space technology trends and how they can solve real-world challenges. This positions you as a thought leader and makes you memorable to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their commercial strategy and revenue growth. Tailor your pitch to show you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our innovative culture at the Satellite Applications Catapult.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial and Partnerships Director in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in the UK Space sector. We want to see how your skills align with our mission and the specific role of Commercial and Partnerships Director.
Showcase Your Network:Don’t forget to mention your connections within the UK Space ecosystem! We’re looking for someone who can leverage relationships, so share examples of how you’ve built and maintained strong partnerships in your previous roles.
Demonstrate Leadership Skills:As a potential leader here at the Catapult, it’s crucial to showcase your ability to inspire and manage teams. Share stories that illustrate your leadership style and how you've successfully guided teams to achieve commercial success.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of the UK Space sector!
How to prepare for a job interview at Satellite Applications Catapult
✨Know Your Space
Make sure you’re well-versed in the UK space sector and the specific challenges it faces. Brush up on recent developments, key players, and emerging opportunities. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the Catapult’s mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams and inspire others. Think about times when you’ve successfully managed complex projects or navigated challenging situations. Highlight your coaching and mentoring experiences as well.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
If possible, connect with current or former employees of the Catapult on LinkedIn. Understanding their perspectives can give you valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which you can reference during your interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific commercial challenges or stakeholder relationships. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies, focusing on how you would create value for the Catapult and its partners.
