Director, IRIS2 Operational Programme Management
ROLE DESCRIPTION
We are looking for a Director Operational Programme Managment IRIS2. You will be responsible for overseeing and enhancing the efficiency, performance, and quality of pro-gramme operations. This role involves strategic planning, risk mitigation, customer engagement, communication management, and regulatory compliance to ensure the successful execution of pro-grammes. You will aligning with the technical programme manager on technical requirements and developments to ensure a consistent implementation. In addition, you are responsible for the set up of the IRIS2 Munich office as an important hub for the programme.
You will be responsible for (this is not an exhaustive list) :
* Design, implement, and supervise programme management tools to drive efficiency, performance, and quality.
* Identify, assess, and mitigate programme risks, ensuring transparency and proactive decision-making.
* Develop and maintain programme schedules, ensuring timely completion of tasks and milestones within quality and budget constraints.
* Coordinate with teams to optimize resource allocation and ensure streamlined execution.
* Establish and manage an integrated IT system landscape for documentation, workflows, planning, and reporting.
* Measure programme efficiency and effectiveness using harmonized KPIs and data-driven insights.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with the grantor, providing regular reports and transparent communication.
* Monitor customer delivery schedules to ensure on-time, high-quality, and scope-compliant handovers.
* Interpret and communicate ambiguous contractual terms to facilitate alignment between the programme team and the grantor.
* Document and track all grantor interactions to ensure quality management and transparency.
* Address and resolve conflicts of interest between the grantor and SpaceRISE.
* Manage the supply chain to ensure compliance with programme standards and judgment criteria.
* Oversee procurement activities, including sourcing, negotiating contracts, and purchasing goods and services, in close collaboration with Vendor Management
* Supervise contract management, ensuring suppliers meet contractual obligations and managing scope changes as well as ensuring regulatory compliance and manage legal risks.
* Implement and oversee security, audit, and compliance standards, offering recommendations and standardized templates to programme teams
* Engage with political stakeholders, ensuring programme alignment with government policies and priorities.
* Coordinate with the communication team all internal communication as well as media and press relations and events and visits, ensuring compliance with EU regulations and providing programme updates.
* Coordinate public relations efforts to communicate programme achievements with all stakeholders.
YOUR PROFILE
Must have
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
* 15+ years of executive-level experience leading large-scale operational programmes, ideally in aerospace, defense, infrastructure, or government-funded sectors
* Track record in communication strategies to shape narratives, manage high-stakes media interac-tions, and drive public affairs strategy
* Deep expertise in risk management, regulatory compliance, and contract governance.
* Proven track record of influencing government, regulatory bodies, and media at the highest levels.
* Strong understanding of budgeting, cost control, procurement strategies, and legal compliance.
* Strong understanding of EU regulations, funding mechanisms, and international programme gov-ernance..
* Fluency in English
* Eligibility for ESA/EU SECRET personnel security clearances is essential. Candidates must be prepared to undergo a security clearance procedure, as this position may require holding such clearance
Nice to have
* Willing to work at least 66% onsite from office
* Willingness to travel domestically and internationally
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU
* Flexible working policy
* Bonus plan
* Comprehensive and competitive benefits plan
* A range of wellness activities and employee assistance programs
SES and its Affiliated Companies are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
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