Director of Controlling, Finance and Operational Procurement

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is a prominent intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established to shape the development of Europe's space capabilities, ESA plays a crucial role in ensuring that investments in space yield significant benefits for citizens across Europe and the globe. With an annual budget of €8.3 billion for the year 2026, ESA employs approximately 6000 individuals, including both staff and contractors, and operates in multiple countries across Europe. The agency's mission encompasses a wide range of activities, from scientific research to technological innovation, all aimed at advancing humanity's understanding and utilization of space.

Job Overview:
The Director of Controlling, Finance, and Operational Procurement is a pivotal role within ESA, reporting directly to the Director General. This position is integral to the overall management of the agency, supporting the Director General in fulfilling various responsibilities and tasks while actively participating in the pursuit of ESA's overarching objectives. As a member of the ESA Executive Board, the Director plays a significant role in senior management, contributing to strategic decision-making and leadership. The responsibilities of this position include overseeing the agency's controlling, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and procurement processes. The Director is expected to monitor program achievements closely, ensuring alignment with ESA's goals and objectives, and to provide guidance that maintains projects on track regarding time, cost, quality, and scope. The role also involves leading modernization efforts and digital transformation initiatives within the agency, ensuring that ESA remains competitive and effective in a rapidly evolving global context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Controlling, Finance, and Operational Procurement has a comprehensive set of duties that include: overseeing the Controlling Hub, which provides best-in-class controlling services to program directorates; monitoring and improving order-to-cash KPIs; managing financial governance and relations with Member States; conducting analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and overseeing treasury activities; ensuring compliance with IPSAS standards; preparing financial and sustainability reports; defining procurement strategies and managing negotiations with industry; and implementing the agency's industrial rules and policies. The Director is also responsible for safeguarding ESA's financial integrity, supporting effective program delivery, and fostering simplification in procurement processes. Additionally, the Director will lead initiatives aimed at strengthening the European industrial base and developing strategies for industrialization and upscaling, ensuring that ESA's technical excellence translates into market-driven solutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position must possess a master's degree in finance, procurement, economics, or business administration, ideally complemented by a high level of expertise in technical subjects. Proven experience in managing public spending and programs, particularly in an international context, is essential. Applicants should also have strong academic credentials in management or business administration, along with experience in managing large industrial procurements. Key qualities include an innovative mindset, strategic orientation, and the ability to lead change while fostering collaboration across teams. Excellent leadership, relationship management, and communication skills are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master's degree in a relevant field such as finance, procurement, economics, or business administration. Candidates should ideally have additional academic credentials in management or business administration, as well as experience in managing large-scale industrial procurements. A strong foundation in technical subjects related to the agency's operations is also beneficial, as it enhances the candidate's ability to navigate complex financial and procurement landscapes effectively.

Experience:
The position requires more than 10 years of experience in senior management roles, particularly at the executive level, with a focus on managing teams and programs of significant size in terms of budget and human resources. Experience in financial management and controlling is essential, along with a proven track record in business management that includes developing innovative strategies to enhance operational efficiency. Candidates should have experience negotiating with both internal and external stakeholders, demonstrating their ability to build strong relationships that drive successful business outcomes.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the European Space Agency. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required for the position. Additionally, knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Director level appointment, and regular travel to other ESA sites is required. The successful candidate must be eligible to acquire security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearance from their national security administrations. Applicants will undergo psychometric testing and other assessments as part of the selection process. Furthermore, candidates will be required to provide references if invited for an interview. ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive working environment and values the contributions of a diverse workforce.