Head of Defence Sales (Aerospace)

Location: Germany; establishing a presence in Düsseldorf or Bremen.

Company

hirify.global develops reusable, high-cadence space transportation systems, including green in-space propulsion, satellite servicing capabilities, and rocket-powered spaceplanes.

What you will do

• Lead hirify.global’s commercial rollout in Germany and own signed contract value, pipeline quality, and long-term market position.
• Identify, qualify, and prioritize opportunities across commercial, national security, and research sectors.
• Translate customer needs into technically viable and cost-effective mission or vehicle acquisition proposals.
• Build senior-level relationships with government programs, prime contractors, research institutions, and industry partners.
• Lead complex, multi-stakeholder deal cycles and negotiate commercial, technical, and governance terms.
• Establish strategic operating locations, partners, and facilities for sovereign operations while contributing market intelligence to the product roadmap.

Requirements

• 10–15 years of experience in business development, sales, or mission management in aerospace, aviation, deep-tech, or a related sector.
• Ability to obtain and maintain German national security clearance at Ü2/Ü3 level.
• Established network with stakeholders including Rheinmetall, OHB, DEU SpCmd, BAAINBw, and DLR.
• Proven experience leading complex, long-cycle programs involving government, institutional, or prime contractor stakeholders.
• University degree in management, business, or a related field, with in-depth knowledge of local regulations.
• Fluency in German and English, written and spoken.

Nice to have

• Experience with aerospace research, defense, or government space agency customers.
• Existing or past security clearance in Germany or another NATO country.
• Experience with primes, Tier-1 suppliers, or sovereign capability programs.
• Knowledge of flight mechanics, mission planning, project lifecycles, or HubSpot and similar CRM systems.
• Leadership experience and willingness to travel domestically and internationally.

Culture & Benefits

• Senior leadership role in a high-growth space transportation startup.
• Collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on sustainable and scalable access to space.
• Competitive executive compensation package with participation in the equity incentive plan.
• Inclusive workplace where diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued.