Location
Oxford, United Kingdom
About Thales Alenia Space
Thales Alenia Space is a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%) that delivers satellite systems, enabling secure connectivity, precise positioning, and deeper exploration of our planet and beyond. It works closely with Telespazio through the Space Alliance to provide end‑to‑end space solutions for governments and commercial customers worldwide.
Role Summary
The senior Strategy & Defence leader will work directly with the UK CEO and executive team to define and deliver UK growth strategy across defence, institutional and commercial markets. This high‑impact role has direct influence on national‑level programmes and future space capability.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and deliver the UK strategic business plan in alignment with global TAS direction
- Lead capture strategies for major bids, particularly within UK MoD and DSTL
- Own and develop a 5‑year pipeline with accurate forecasting and win probability
- Build and maintain senior stakeholder relationships across UK Government and agencies
- Drive new business in spacecraft propulsion, refuelling and wider defence applications
- Coordinate capture activities across the TAS joint venture
- Contribute to bid strategy, including win themes, competitor positioning and pricing strategy
What You’ll Bring
- Proven experience in strategy, business development or capture leadership within defence, space or aerospace
- Strong understanding of UK Government customers (e.g. MoD, DSTL, UKSA)
- Track record of winning complex, high‑value bids
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead through collaboration rather than authority
- Strong commercial acumen combined with the ability to grasp technical concepts quickly
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Resilience, adaptability and a results‑driven mindset
Benefits
- Performance‑related bonus
- Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00
- 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours per year (pro rata)
- 24 hours volunteered time paid for
- Private healthcare
- Pension scheme
- Life cover
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to a mental wellbeing app
- Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
- Gym membership discounts
Security Clearance Requirement
This role requires Security Clearance (SC). If you do not currently hold clearance, you must obtain, achieve and maintain SC clearance before commencing employment. You must generally have resided in the UK for the last 5 years; in some circumstances a minimum of 3 years’ residence over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.
Equal Opportunity Employment
At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all.
