Sales & Partnerships Director
Axiom Space
Axiom Space is building for beyond, guided by the vision of a thriving home in space that benefits every human, everywhere. The leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, Axiom Space operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while developing its successor, Axiom Station – a permanent commercial destination in low-Earth orbit that will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home.
Axiom Space fosters a diverse environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Sales & Partnerships Director who is fueled by problem-solving, continuously curious, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and implement strategies to build and maintain strong industry coalitions and working groups in target countries spurring commercial and government interest in participating in the Low Earth Orbit economy.
- Collaborate with key stakeholders, including industry partners, trade associations, and government representatives, to foster collaboration and advocacy for supportive policies, regulations, and procurements.
- Develop key messages, narratives, and a strategy for engaging industry in target countries to support space missions and commercial LEO activities.
- Build country trade / industry ecosystems leveraged to support space agency sales efforts by developing strategies to galvanize industry around space missions and support of in-country space agency. Manage the partner ecosystem and lead all facets of relationship management and engagement with our strategic partners developing strategies and plans that expand our customer base and global reach.
- Bring ministries of science, trade / commerce, and finance to the table for advocacy discussions around funding space agency missions and support Axiom Space sales to international governments via industry coalitions and partners.
- Design, implement and execute cross-sector business development strategy for target countries with end-result focused on securing signed MOUs and industry sponsorship for space missions.
- Create and manage industry working groups to build, develop and maintain in-country momentum fostering interest and advocacy for space missions. Manage strategic partnerships in support of Axiom’s mission, vision, and revenue generation goals.
- Develop and execute strategic and tactical plans for the pursuit and development of key opportunities, which includes establishing and maintaining a qualified pipeline of corporate, industry and trade advocates in target countries.
- Serve as focal point collaborating with internal cross-functional teams to develop and implement sales and partnership strategy with metrics / KPIs. Understand customer’s requirements, create suitable solutions, and help overcome any challenges.
- Maintain multiple customer and prospective customer relationships simultaneously.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and design innovative approaches to maximize sales effectiveness.
- Engage with commerce and trade / economic development organizations to build relationships in target countries.
- Support corporate development activities with joint ventures, partners and potential M&A targets.
- Attend relevant industry events and conferences to develop and maintain strong business relationships. International travel is expected for this position, in compliance with all appropriate travel restrictions.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in business, political science, international relations, economics, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in international trade, government relations, public affairs, industry advocacy, or a related field preferably in the aerospace sector or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Proven track record of successfully building industry coalitions and engaging with government officials to influence policy decisions and support contract awards.
- Strong understanding of the global space industry, market dynamics, and trends.
- Experience working with US Embassies and the Department of Commerce as well as with international trade and economic development organizations.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Proven track record winning large contracts with international governments, ideally with space agencies or ministries of economics, education, or defense.
- Proven record of success with the entire sales cycle, from planning to closing with expertise qualifying prospects and partners with probing questions.
- Experience working in foreign markets and with foreign partners is required.
- Experience in international business development and New Space sector is desirable.
Essential Functions
Work Environment: Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.
Requirements
- Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
- Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position.
Physical Requirements
- Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time). May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time).
- Equipment and Machines
- Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.).
Skills
- Excellent interpersonal skill
- Excellent communication skill, verbal and written
- Excellent organizational skills
- Result oriented personality with a creative approach to problem solving
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Self-motivated
Competencies: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Ethics - Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and principles; upholds organizational values
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics
- Organizational Support - Follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports organization's goals and values; benefits organization through outside activities; supports affirmative action and respects diversity
- Communications - Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods
- Cost Consciousness - Works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue; conserves organizational resources
- Teamwork - Eager and able to work in a collaborative and cross-disciplinary fashion in a fast-paced, dynamic, and deadline-oriented environment
Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.