Vice President, Space Systems Software

About the role

Rocket Lab is seeking a Vice President, Space Systems Software to lead our satellite flight and ground software organization. This role is critical to our mission of enabling some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the business unit’s strategic plan to achieve revenue growth, market share expansion, and profitability targets.
• Identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, customer needs, and competitive opportunities in satellite flight and ground software.
• Understand the needs of key satellite customers, including the U.S. Government, and ensure the growth strategy aligns with future market and customer needs.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align the business unit’s goals with the company’s overall vision and strategy.
• Drive revenue growth by working with the Business Development team to identify new opportunities, expand existing customer relationships, and enter new markets.
• Cultivate relationships with key customers, industry partners, and stakeholders to build long-term business opportunities.
• Oversee the development and delivery of innovative satellite flight and ground software solutions that meet customer requirements and industry standards.
• Ensure the business unit remains at the forefront of technology advancements, including AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to prioritize product roadmaps and ensure timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
• Drive operational efficiency across the business unit, including resource allocation, process optimization, and cost management.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and ensure accountability across teams.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team across product development, engineering, operations, and program management.
• Promote a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and professional development.
• Inspire and motivate teams to achieve ambitious goals and deliver exceptional results.
• Own the P&L for the organization, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans to support strategic objectives.
• Provide regular reporting and insights to executive leadership on business unit performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, computer science, or other field.
• 12+ years of experience in leadership roles, with a focus on business development, strategy execution, and/or revenue growth with a focus on software products.
• Proven experience leading software businesses.
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership skills, with a track record of driving revenue growth.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Strong financial acumen, including P&L management and budgeting.

What to Expect

We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.