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Chief Executive Officer - Space Technology & Defense Sector #0209
Chief Executive Officer - Space Technology & Defense Sector #0209Keller Executive Search • Colorado Springs, CO, US
Chief Executive Officer - Space Technology & Defense Sector #0209

Chief Executive Officer - Space Technology & Defense Sector #0209

Keller Executive Search • Colorado Springs, CO, US
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Our client, a well-capitalized international space technology enterprise, is launching its United States headquarters and requires a Chief Executive Officer to spearhead this inaugural initiative. The parent company has built sophisticated space situational awareness capabilities, delivering services to satellite operators, launch service providers, and government entities through proprietary tracking and analytical technologies.

With significant traction among U.S. defense and government decision-makers and backed by considerable growth funding, this American expansion marks a core strategic objective. The initiative positions the organization for accelerated commercial expansion throughout the U.S. aerospace and defense marketplace.

This represents a genuine founding executive position. The successful candidate will receive substantial equity ownership in the U.S. operation and maintain complete operational authority, essentially functioning as a co-founder. Responsibilities encompass establishing the American enterprise from inception, accelerating revenue expansion, forging strategic alliances, overseeing government engagement, and building a top-tier team.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished commercial executive with extensive aerospace or defense industry knowledge who excels in entrepreneurial settings and is ready to direct the strategic and operational course of a high-growth, international organization.

Requirements

Essential

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

Preferred

  • International Business Experience : Success navigating cross-border operations or global expansion initiatives
  • 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
  • Technical Background : Engineering, science, or technical credentials providing credibility in complex technical environments
  • Founder or Co-Founder Experience : Previous experience building or leading a company from early stages
  • Security Clearance : Active or previously held U.S. government security clearance
  • DoD or National Security Relationships : Established network within U.S. defense, intelligence, or space communities
  • 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

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

    Equal Employment Opportunity Statement :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

    Commitment to Diversity :  Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

    Reasonable Accommodations :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

    Compensation Information :  For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

    Compliance with Laws :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

    Workplace Harassment :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

    E-Verify Participation :  Keller Executive Search and / or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

    Privacy and Pay Equity :

  • California Residents : For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at .
  • Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents : Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
  • Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
  • State-Specific Information :

  • Rhode Island : We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
  • Connecticut : We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
  • New Jersey : We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
  • Veteran Status :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

    Genetic Information :  In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

    Local Laws :  Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

    Note :  This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.

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