Chief Executive Officer

Astra Space

Our focus spans:

• Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite systems
• Space-based surveillance, communication platforms
• Advanced propulsion systems
• Small satellite launch services
• Space situational awareness and debris mitigation technologies

We are seeking a visionary leader to build, lead, and scale Astra Space into a world-class player in the new space economy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic direction, positioning Astra Space as a pioneering force in India’s private space-tech sector.
• Translate high-level vision into executable product roadmaps and go-to-market plans.
• Develop and expand commercial opportunities with government (ISRO, IN-SPACe, DRDO), defence, and private space clients (global and domestic).
• Form strategic alliances with academia, research institutes, and space-tech startups.
• Explore and drive avenues for private investment, joint ventures, and technology grants (national/international).
• Ensure long-term financial sustainability with strong governance, ROI accountability, and compliance.
• Build and lead a cross-functional team of engineers, mission planners, regulatory experts, and program managers.
• Foster a culture of innovation, agility, and operational excellence.
• Liaise with IN-SPACe, ISRO, MoD, and global regulatory entities to ensure full compliance and approval of space missions.
• Implement robust IP, cyber security, and export control frameworks.
• Be the face of Astra Space at national/international space forums, investor meets, and public policy discussions.
• Represent Astra Space’s vision in the media and global industry platforms.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 25 years of leadership in aerospace, defence-tech, space-tech, or deep tech startups.
• Proven experience in setting up or scaling an R&D-led business or institution, in the specific area of space exploration through satellite launches, ground stations management, monetization of data and images generated from satellites.
• Familiarity with India’s defence procurement ecosystem, IN-SPACe regulations, or global space mission protocols is a plus.

The ideal candidate will bring exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial drive, and a strong techno-commercial grasp of space technologies. As Astra Space is being built from the ground up, the CEO will be responsible for establishing core capabilities across engineering, program execution, compliance, partnerships, and commercialization. Proven ability to navigate ambiguity, translate vision into strategy, and build high-performance teams in a zero-to-one environment is essential. The role demands expertise in investor communication, board engagement, and operating within a parent-subsidiary governance structure. A bold yet pragmatic vision, coupled with integrity, resilience, and strategic foresight, is key along with deep respect for Astra’s legacy and an unwavering pursuit of space innovation.

What the incumbent will gain