Head of the Industrial Policy and Auditing 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 countries and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science, technology, and applications.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Industrial Policy and Auditing Department is a pivotal role within the Directorate of Controlling, Finance and Operational Procurement (CFO) at ESA. This position is responsible for defining and ensuring the coherent and efficient implementation of the Agency’s industrial and audit policies across all programs and activities. The role involves fostering relationships between the Agency and the European space industry, conducting economic research, and evaluating the socioeconomic impacts of space programs. The Head of Department will be a key member of the management team, working closely with other directors to enhance the service provision to Member States and program directorates, thereby developing the industrial ecosystem. This position requires a strategic mindset to align the Agency's objectives with industrial stakeholders, ensuring that the Agency's policies are effectively communicated and implemented.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Head of the Industrial Policy and Auditing Department include fostering relationships with the European space industry and its associations, ensuring alignment between Agency objectives and industrial stakeholders. The role involves coordinating the implementation of the Agency’s industrial policy, including SME policy, across all programs, and managing the geographical return policy by analyzing industrial participation. Responsibilities also include preparing and conducting reviews of contract geographical distribution, delivering policy recommendations, collaborating with Member States on Industrial Policy Committee matters, developing industrial cost audit policies, and conducting socioeconomic studies to evaluate program impacts. The Head of Department will also be responsible for integrating industrial knowledge into processes, maintaining a hub of expertise on the European space economy, and ensuring compliance with the ESA Convention and Council decisions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in a relevant domain and have at least 15 years of relevant professional experience. Proven experience in leading and developing teams is essential, along with the ability to provide strategic direction and make timely, high-standard decisions. Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills are required, as well as the ability to resolve complex issues and drive performance across teams. Excellent leadership, relationship management, and communication skills are also necessary, along with a track record of representing the Agency’s interests externally.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in a relevant field is mandatory for this position. This educational background should be complemented by extensive professional experience in areas related to industrial policy, auditing, and space program management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong emphasis on leadership and team management. Experience in industry or ESA project management is considered an asset, as is international experience, particularly outside the candidate's home country. Familiarity with diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities is also beneficial.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another Member State language is considered an asset. This multilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the Agency and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and is based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France. The role is classified under Grade Band A

• Mobility is inherent to management functions, and opportunities for rotation may be available after approximately five years in this role. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The Agency values diversity and aims to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace.