Sales Manager in Space Products -100% (m/f/d)
Thales Alenia Space — a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%) — is a global space manufacturer delivering cutting-edge solutions for over 40 years in telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science, and orbital infrastructures.
With a diverse mix of skills, talents, and cultures, we empower our customers — governments, institutions, space agencies, and telecommunications operators — to have Space to Connect, Secure & Defend, Observe & Protect, Explore, Travel & Navigate.
We say HI* — Welcome to the Thales team! *HI stands for Human Intelligence.
Thales in Switzerland is part of a world-leading technology group operating in Defense & Security, Training & Simulation, Space, and Digital Identity & Security. In Zurich, you will join a center of excellence for optical, quantum-based communications and opto-electronic observation systems used in satellite and space technologies.
Position: Sales Manager in Space Products (100%) — Zürich, Switzerland (#LI-HYBRID) Ref. Nr. R0299573
Your Mission
- Be part of the Bids and Business Development team of Thales Alenia Space in Switzerland.
- Identify and capture business opportunities aligned with the assigned product and capability portfolio in markets including ESA, ESA PRODEX, and export markets.
- Collaborate closely with Thales Alenia Space’s internal stakeholders such as Sales Teams, Key Account Managers, Product Line Managers, Capture and Bid Teams.
- Develop business cases and secure development funding from public programs (ESA, Horizon Europe, etc.).
- Lead proposal preparation, manage bid milestones, and oversee contract negotiations up to signature.
- Act as Capture Leader and contribute to business development for radiation monitor packages.
Your Profile
- Degree in Space or Electronic/Electrical Engineering.
- At least 5 years of experience in business development or sales in the space sector.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and “elevator pitch” skills.
- Ability to adapt communication style to various stakeholders and organizational levels.
- Proactive, organized, and skilled in planning and executing complex activities.
- Comfortable working in dynamic environments with evolving boundaries.
- Strong networking skills within Thales Alenia Space, agencies, and partners.
- Fluent in English; French and/or Italian are advantageous.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office; familiarity with ESA networks is a plus.
What Awaits You in Zürich
- Collective Labour Agreement MEM-Industry Swissmem.
- Flexible and mobile working options with part-time models for work-life balance.
- Share participation program “Sharing Thales”.
- International development and training opportunities within Thales Group.
- Employee benefits platform, parking discounts, public transport subsidies, and meal allowances (CHF 120/month).
- Comprehensive insurance coverage and Avadis Capital accumulation foundation.
- A friendly, first-name culture promoting teamwork, growth, and creativity.
Say HI — Your way to us! When challenges arise, our international teams come together to tackle complexity with tomorrow’s leading technologies.
At Thales Alenia Space, we provide CAREERS — not just jobs. With 8,900 employees in 10 countries, we offer international mobility, personal growth, and purpose through space innovation. #SpaceForLife — Great journeys start here. Apply now!
Contact: Frederic Martin, Talent Acquisition Partner.
*Human Intelligence.
Note: Only applications submitted directly by candidates will be considered.
