CEO - Defense and Aerospace

A well-funded international space technology company is establishing its U.S. headquarters and seeks a Chief Executive Officer to lead this founding operation. The parent organization has developed advanced capabilities in space situational awareness, serving satellite operators, launch providers, and government customers through proprietary tracking and analysis technologies.

The company has gained strong momentum with U.S. defense and government stakeholders and is backed by substantial growth capital. This U.S. expansion represents a strategic priority, positioning the organization for rapid commercial growth within the American aerospace and defense ecosystem.

This is a true founding executive opportunity. The CEO will hold significant equity ownership in the U.S. entity and operate with full operational control, effectively serving as a co-founder. You will be responsible for building the American business from the ground up, driving revenue growth, establishing strategic partnerships, managing government relations, and assembling a high-performance team.

This role suits a seasoned commercial leader with deep aerospace or defense sector expertise who thrives in startup environments and is prepared to own the strategic and operational trajectory of a high-growth, cross-border organization.

Requirements

Essential

• Commercial Leadership Experience: Proven track record as a Chief Revenue Officer, business unit leader, VP of Sales/Business Development, or equivalent role with P&L accountability
• Aerospace, Defense, or Satellite Industry Background: Direct experience in space technology, defense contracting, satellite operations, or related sectors
• U.S. Defense Contracting Knowledge: Understanding of DoD procurement processes, compliance requirements, and government customer dynamics
• Revenue Growth & Business Development Expertise: Demonstrated ability to scale revenue, close complex deals, and build sustainable commercial pipelines
• Startup or Scale-Up Experience: Comfort operating in fast-paced, resource-constrained environments with ambiguity and evolving priorities
• Team Building Capability: Experience recruiting, leading, and scaling high-performing organizations
• Strategic Partnership Development: Track record establishing relationships with government agencies, prime contractors, and commercial partners
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Ownership mentality and willingness to assume equity participation and operational responsibility
• U.S. Work Authorization: Required for defense contracting compliance and operational requirements

Preferred

• Founder or Co-Founder Experience: Previous experience building or leading a company from early stages
• DoD or National Security Relationships: Established network within U.S. defense, intelligence, or space communities
• Space Domain Awareness Expertise: Familiarity with orbital operations, tracking systems, satellite safety, or related mission areas
• Strategic U.S. Location: Proximity to major aerospace and defense hubs preferred; Colorado Springs area highly desirable
• Security Clearance: Active or previously held U.S. government security clearance
• International Business Experience: Success navigating cross-border operations or global expansion initiatives
• Technical Background: Engineering, science, or technical credentials providing credibility in complex technical environments

Benefits

• Base Salary: $270,000–$300,000 USD annually
• Variable Compensation: Performance-based incentives tied to revenue and growth milestones
• Equity Ownership: Significant equity participation reflecting co-founder status and operational control of the U.S. entity
• Stage: Growth-stage company backed by substantial institutional funding

Why This Opportunity

• Founding Leadership Role: Build and lead U.S. operations for an established international space technology company
• Significant Equity Upside: Meaningful ownership stake with genuine entrepreneurial opportunity
• High-Growth Sector: Space situational awareness is critical infrastructure for the rapidly expanding commercial and defense space economy
• Government Momentum: Strong traction with U.S. defense and government customers
• Proven Technology Platform: Leverage established capabilities and international operational experience
• Strategic Timing: Enter at a pivotal inflection point where your leadership will directly shape North American growth

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