A new era of space travel is dawning for low Earth orbits (LEO). Launch platforms are multiplying, with more providers and dramatically lower cost per kilogram. Yet current and prospective space stations were designed a generation ago with old constraints and assumptions. A new space station, Strident Space Station, will change the game by using newly available launch capability to capitalize on LEO opportunity and radically expand the usage of manned stations. Strident Space Station will provide artificial Moon-like gravity, novel functionality and comfortable, spacious quarters for 16 and more people, a mix of crew, researchers, and paying passengers, to perform microgravity manufacturing, do scientific research or revel in the adventure of space while enjoying the amazing view of Earth below. We seek a Founding VP of Business Development to discover, define and build the commercial (pharmaceutical, biotech, fiber optics, semiconductors etc.), governmental and touristic opportunities for Strident Space Station.
Responsibilities
Find the varied customers in different industries who need Strident Space Station capabilities
Define our market opportunities and analyze financial implications
Work closely with customers to shape missions, architecture, and requirements
Develop, execute, and win business
Prepare blog posts, white papers, and other market communications
Lead customer and industry engagements
Develop talking points and tailored presentations for customer, industry, and teammate engagements
Lead strategy development, long range business plan development, legislative affairs activities, government operations activities
Identify critical partnership and supply chain risks, such as launch services, and take action to address them
Align supplier strategy, vertical integration, and strategic sourcing with our mission
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or higher in Business, Aerospace Engineering or similar field
Track record of substantial achievement in new business development and capture, preferably in aerospace or other capital-intensive technology areas
Basic financial modelling
Skilled in drafting proposals, briefings, presentations, and white papers
Local in San Francisco Bay Area
US citizen
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Business, Finance, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in business development, B2B sales, or corporate strategy, specifically within the commercial space, aerospace, or capital-intensive deep-tech sectors.
Established Industry Network: Pre-existing relationships with key stakeholders in government agencies (e.g., NASA, DoD, ESA), commercial aerospace, or target microgravity manufacturing sectors (pharmaceuticals, biotech, semiconductors).
Complex Deal Structuring: Proven track record of originating, negotiating, and closing multi-million dollar contracts, public-private partnerships, or complex government procurements.
Technical Fluency: Strong ability to understand spacecraft architectures and mission constraints, and translate those technical realities into compelling business value propositions for non-technical customers.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Experience partnering seamlessly with internal engineering, operations, and product teams to shape product roadmaps based on customer feedback and market demand.
Bonus/Ideal: Early career experience in an engineering or technical role related to satellites, launch vehicles, or aerospace operations before transitioning to business development.
Contact email:
alex.mikhaylov@stridentspace.com
Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
Other
Job function
Business Development and Sales
Industries
Space Research and Technology
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