Business Controller (Reserve list)

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency operates across multiple countries, focusing on various space missions, satellite launches, and international collaborations. ESA's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.

Job Overview:
The Business Controller position is part of a Reserve list recruitment process initiated by ESA to address the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in business control. As a Business Controller, you will be integrated into the Directorate’s Business Unit Controlling Office, where you will provide essential management support services across various operational units. Your role will involve enhancing controlling and management support processes, contributing to digitalization efforts, and developing management reporting tools such as dashboards. You will be expected to interface with multiple stakeholders both within ESA and externally, playing a crucial role in aiding managers with strategic and programmatic decision-making. This position is designed for individuals who are proactive and capable of supporting project managers in implementing activities while ensuring transparency, efficiency, and knowledge-sharing within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Business Controller, your responsibilities will include leading the consolidation and maintenance of the Directorate’s resources and activity plans for various timeframes, including short, medium, and long-term reports on commitments, costs, cash flow, workforce, risk, and geographical return. You will formally interface with both internal and external stakeholders, including the European Commission and Member States, to provide information, prepare formal reports, and negotiate agreements. Additionally, you will manage the Directorate’s workload planning cycle, support the preparation of workforce plans, and verify Service Level Agreements across directorates. Your role will also involve managing or coordinating external workforce framework contracts, performing management support and controlling tasks, implementing financial planning and monitoring, defining and maintaining management processes, leading financial accounting closures, and ensuring compliance with budgetary provisions and financial regulations. You will also be responsible for managing the charging policy for the Directorate’s services and driving continuous improvement in your areas of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant discipline and have at least four years of relevant professional experience. Professional experience as a controller, preferably at the agency or industry level, is highly desirable. Knowledge and understanding of space systems architecture will be considered an asset. Candidates should have substantial experience in applying project management and risk management principles, advanced business/project control techniques, and experience in preparing, negotiating, and implementing major industrial procurements. Familiarity with European Commission projects will also be advantageous. Advanced knowledge of computer systems and information/planning/coordination tools, such as esa-p, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Project, is essential. Familiarity with modern dashboard and risk management tools will be considered an asset.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant discipline is required for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in business management, finance, or a related field, equipping candidates with the necessary skills to perform effectively in the role of Business Controller.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in business control or a related field. Experience in a similar role within an agency or industry setting is preferred, particularly in environments related to space systems or large-scale projects. Familiarity with project management and risk management principles is essential, as is experience in financial planning and analysis.

Languages:
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. 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 communication and collaboration within the diverse international team at ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a Reserve list recruitment process, meaning that candidates will be pre-assessed and pre-approved for future vacancies. Inclusion in the Reserve list does not guarantee recruitment but positions candidates as valuable resources for upcoming projects. The Reserve list will remain active for a period of 24 months. Candidates may be contacted for relevant opportunities and may be invited for follow-up interviews. The position may involve working in various locations across Europe, including Noordwijk, Cologne, Darmstadt, Frascati, Harwell, Paris, Redu, and Villanueva de la Cañada. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.