Project Manager Space Domain, IRIS2 Programme Office

ProgramME Description

IRIS2 is the new European Union secure satellite constellation. This project is the European Union's answer to the pressing challenges of tomorrow to provide secure connectivity services and enhanced communication capacities to the EU and its Member States. In addition, as well as to governmental users, private companies and European citizens while benefiting from ensuring high-speed internet broadband to cope with connectivity dead zones.

SES – together with other consortium partners and core members – has been selected by European Commission to build and to operate the IRIS2 multi-orbit satellite constellation. 

As the project enters its next phase, our team is expanding to support the development of future services and products enabled by the IRIS2 system. We are now seeking skilled professionals to help shape the service provisioning landscape and ensure the successful deployment of cutting-edge satellite connectivity solutions.

Role Description

As a member of an agile project organization, you will be expected to bring a flexible way of working and an adaptive mindset to a dynamic development environment.

In your Project Manager role, you horizontally overlook the smooth execution of the Security Domain of the Project keeping track of the timeline, milestones as well as the budget for the scope defined.

You will work closely with technical experts and other stakeholders like Finance or Procurement following strict standards and rules with regards to all relevant activities. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY RESULT AREAS

• Lead the planning and execution of security work packages within the IRIS² program, in coordination with Security Domain Leader, EC, ESA, and industrial partners.
• Coordinate the development of security documentation, including risk assessments, security architecture, threat models, and compliance roadmaps.
• Ensure alignment with EU regulations related to classified information, export control, and cybersecurity
• Manage the classification and handling of documents (e.g., SES Confidential, EU Sensitive), including liaison with security accreditation authorities.
• Monitor progress, track dependencies, and report on KPIs and risks related to security deliverables.
• Facilitate communication between technical teams, security stakeholders, and program leadership.
• Support the preparation of export control assessments and license applications where required.
• Represent the security team in internal and external reviews, audits, and coordination meetings.
• Contribute to the development of security governance frameworks and operational policies.
• In cooperation with Supply Chain teams and Engineering teams, identify project (sub-) contractors and vendors, execute RFPs, set-up and manage (sub-) contracts 
• In cooperation with Finance team, manage budgets/resources aiming at cost control and cost anticipation/forecasting 
• Report to Programme Management on the project evolvement

COMPETENCIES

• Excellent project management skills, with strong time management skills to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong ability to work independently and with limited supervision in complex environments, e.g. project or matrix organizations

• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing project requirements and environments
• Ability to think strategically and align project goals with organizational objectives
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal

• Strong leadership and teamwork skills, with experience managing diverse expert teams and complex project organizations

• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Innovation mindset, encouraging and contributing to innovative approaches and solutions.

• Proactive approach, can-do mentality and ability to work autonomously

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• University Degree in either Telecom, IT or Satellite Engineering or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years experience in the participation (at least partially) in the design, development, implementation, testing, validation and operations of satellite and/or ground systems / equivalent complex aerospace programmes
• Minimum 5 years proven professional experience in project management (waterfall processes preferred) ideally certified by for instance PMI or another similar organization 
• Proven experience in working with EU, ESA and or national governmental institutions along ECSS standards 
• Experience in using MS Tools including MS Project 
• Experience in managing Requirements Management tools would be considered as an asset 
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken, any other European language is considered as an asset 

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS / COMMENTS

• 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
• Willing to work at least 60% onsite from office
• Travel as required for project realization purposes