Head of the Vega and Space Rider Programmes Department

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'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. ESA operates in various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, exploration, and satellite navigation, and collaborates with numerous international partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
As the Head of the Vega and Space Rider Programmes Department, you will play a pivotal role in the management and strategic direction of the Vega and Space Rider programmes. Reporting directly to the Director of Space Transportation, you will be part of the Directorate’s management team, contributing to decision-making processes for all major activities within the Directorate. Your responsibilities will encompass the overall implementation of the Vega and Space Rider programmes, including the Vega-C Competitiveness Improvement and Product Adaptation programmes, as well as the Vega Evolution development programme. You will oversee the preparation and implementation of Vega exploitation activities and manage a team responsible for the development of P120C-P160C, ensuring synergies between Ariane 6 and Vega-C. This position requires a strong technical background, leadership skills, and the ability to interface with various stakeholders, including industry and Member States, on both technical and programmatic matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your duties will include developing and motivating the members of the Department by assessing performance, encouraging learning and development, delegating responsibilities, and providing regular and constructive feedback. You will prepare and implement development activities related to Vega and Space Rider, including the Vega-C Competitiveness Improvement programme, the Product Adaptation programme, and the Vega Evolution development. Additionally, you will manage the Vega-C LEAP programme for infrastructure and test benches, ensuring the implementation of ESA responsibilities relating to Vega and Vega-C transition and stabilized exploitation. You will also lead the joint team responsible for the development of P120C/P160C and related exploitation activities, ensuring technical and programmatic synergies between Ariane 6 and Vega-C. Furthermore, you will implement necessary launch system adaptations and lead all Vega mission-related launch service activities following contract signature. Coordination with departments responsible for infrastructure programmes and future space transportation programmes will be essential, as well as interfacing with industry and Member States on technical and programmatic matters as required.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, you must possess a master's degree in an engineering domain, along with at least 15 years of relevant professional experience. You should have experience in leading, motivating, and developing a team, with the ability to provide strategic direction and relate team objectives to the overall organizational goals. The ability to anticipate problems, resolve complex issues, and support others in this process is crucial. Previous experience in change management within a large organization is also required, as well as demonstrated leadership, relationship management, and communication skills. A proven track record of representing the Agency’s interests to external interfaces is essential, along with excellent cognitive, analytical, delegation, planning, and organizational skills.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in an engineering domain is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary technical knowledge and skills to effectively manage the Vega and Space Rider programmes and lead a team of professionals in this specialized field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong emphasis on leadership and team management. Experience in the aerospace sector, particularly in launch systems and space transportation, is highly desirable. Additionally, international experience, including work outside of the home country, is considered an asset, as is experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities. Mobility is inherent to management functions, and candidates should be open to potential rotation opportunities within the organization.

Languages:
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required for this position. Knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is a four-year appointment, which is extendable to indefinite. The role is based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France. Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations. Successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment, conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with ESA's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures. The Agency is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. Mobility opportunities may be offered as part of career evolution at ESA, starting after approximately five years in this role.