VP of Institutional Relations

Turning this vision into reality requires both engineering strength and institutional backing. PAVE Space is building the relationships needed to support its next phase of development.As a VP of Institutional Relations, you own the company’s institutional funding strategy. Align the R&D roadmap with European funding opportunities, build credibility with institutions, and secure non-dilutive funding that supports long-term development.You will ownWork with the board and leadership team to shape the long-term R&D roadmap and translate it into a structured funding plan (ESA, EU, national agencies)Build and maintain relationships with ESA directorates, national space agencies, and other European stakeholdersTrack upcoming calls for proposals and tenders, select relevant opportunities, based on strategic fit rather than volumeLead the preparation and submission of proposals, ensuring consistency between technical content and funding objectivesPrepare and submit proposals, initially independently and later with a small teamManage and report on the institutional pipeline, ensuring alignment between funding milestones and company objectivesWhat we are looking for10+ years of experience in the space sectorStrong understanding of European Space Agency processes and funding mechanismsExisting network within ESA or related European institutionsSolid technical background, with the ability to engage on R&D topicsProven experience in securing large non-dilutive funding (50M+)Ability to operate independently in an early-stage environmentBackground in the launcher ecosystemExperience working across ESA, EU, and national funding programmesExperience building or structuring an institutional strategy from scratchExperience with coordinating internal stakeholders around proposal effortsExposure to both technical and commercial aspects of space programmesYou will fit ifYou thrive in fast-paced, high-intensity environments with ambitious timelinesYou understand how ESA programmes are thought out and awarded in practiceYou can connect technical milestones with funding opportunitiesYou are comfortable starting alone and building structure as you goYou bring both strategic thinking and hands-on executionYou look for non-obvious opportunities and know how to act on themIf you’re ready to tackle this unique and exciting challenge and participate in the development of this new orbital continent, join us at PAVE Space.We are a fully on-site company, and all roles require daily in-person work at our office in Villeneuve (VD) - Switzerland #J-18808-Ljbffr