VP Sales

Job description

COMPANY NewOrbit builds satellites that fly in very low Earth orbit, below 300 km, along with the electric propulsion that keeps them there. Flying closer to Earth means sharper imagery from smaller optics, and an orbit that cleans itself: our satellites de-orbit within a month at end of life, leaving no debris. Our AURA family of RF gridded ion thrusters powers our own NEO-1 satellite, with first flight planned for Q3 2028, and is also offered to other operators. Electric propulsion is what lets our satellites hold very low orbits, and our AURA RF gridded ion thruster is at the centre of it. YOUR ROLE We are seeking a VP Sales to lead new business development with government and large space sector customers. This is a senior, hands-on role for someone who thrives on winning major contracts personally, not just directing a team from a distance. You bring deep, current knowledge of the satellite sales landscape, a track record of closing significant contracts, and the seniority to represent NewOrbit at the highest level with strategic customers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Win and close contracts: Lead high-value deals with governments and large space organisations, from first conversation through to signature. - Own the full sales cycle: Sourcing, qualification, proposal, negotiation, and close - across every stage. - Build strategic relationships: Develop and maintain senior-level relationships across government agencies, primes, and major operators. - Set commercial strategy: Shape and execute NewOrbit's sales approach for government and enterprise customers. - Represent NewOrbit externally: Executive-level presence at customer meetings, government engagements, and industry events. - Partner internally: Work closely with engineering and delivery teams to scope deals that are commercially sound and deliverable. - Report to leadership: Own pipeline, forecasting, and deal status reporting to the board. - Grow the function: Build out a wider sales team as the business scales. FUNDAMENTAL REQUIREMENTS - Satellite sales experience (required): Direct, hands-on experience selling satellites specifically, across the full sales process. Current, up-to-date knowledge of the satellite customer landscape. - Deal track record: Demonstrated history of winning significant (single-digit million £) contracts with large space organizations and/or governments. - Seniority: Minimum 10 years in space industry sales; realistically 15-20+ years. This is a senior hire. - Career focus: Majority, ideally the entirety, of your career spent in the space industry. - Relationship-led approach: A strong, established professional network across government, primes, and major operators, built through years of direct engagement in the sector. WHY NEWORBIT SPACE? - Pioneering space technology - Your work on our RF gridded ion thrusters and VLEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and challenge traditional LEO. - Ownership and impact - You'll have a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry, and you'll take part in the full lifecycle of satellite technology. - Equity and competitive salary - Alongside a competitive salary you receive a company ownership stake, so you share in the technology you help build and in our collective success. - Comprehensive benefits - Private health insurance with dental and optical cover, and annual health check-ups. - Hybrid working - One dedicated remote day per week. - Visa sponsorship and relocation support - We sponsor visas and provide relocation support for candidates moving to join us.