Capella Space
Director, Business Development, Federal Solutions
Capella Space, Louisville, Colorado, United States, 80028
Director, Business Development, Federal Solutions
2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About Capella Space Capella Space is a pioneer in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. We empower government, commercial, and research organizations around the world with high-resolution, timely Earth insights that drive better decisions across defense and intelligence, disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, environmental protection, energy, and more.
As a U.S.-based company, Capella designs, builds, and operates an advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites in orbit today. Our satellites are backed by a fully automated tasking, collection, and delivery platform, delivering fast, reliable insights when and where our customers need them most. As a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, Capella is charting the future of Earth observation. Together, we're on a mission to bring quantum computing to space — unlocking ultra-secure, encrypted uplink and downlink capabilities, reducing latency, and enabling powerful on-orbit analytics. This visionary integration of advanced remote sensing and quantum technology will support customers with the highest level of data fidelity, security, and speed.
Capella was named one of Fast Company's 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023 and is a trusted partner of the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, NASA, the National Reconnaissance Office, and allied government agencies worldwide.
What Makes Capella Unique? At Capella, we don't just imagine what's possible — we build it. We're a mission-driven team fueled by curiosity, grit, and a shared commitment to redefining the limits of space innovation. Our environment is fast paced, rooted in humble collaboration. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and our industry. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossible — we're the place for you.
About the Team Capella's Business Development team partners with defense, intelligence, and civil leaders to deliver space-based capabilities that strengthen U.S. national security. We work alongside engineers, solutions architects, and product strategists to bring resilient satellite systems — and now, integrated quantum technologies — to the missions that need them most.
About the Role We are seeking an exceptional
Director of Business Development, Mission Solutions
to lead our Federal Business Development, Federal Solutions Engineering, and Federal Customer Support teams. In this role, you will transform our go-to-market strategy — evolving from data-centric sales into the delivery of
integrated satellite and quantum mission solutions
that directly enable U.S. Government missions.
This leader will also serve as the
focal point for advancing the nexus of IonQ's quantum technologies and Capella's space capabilities , positioning the company at the forefront of the U.S. Government's emerging
quantum-space strategy . By combining resilient satellites with quantum computing, sensing, and secure networking, you will lead efforts to define, capture, and execute programs that set the pace for national security innovation.
This is a high-impact leadership role for a visionary with the network, technical acumen, and operational drive to expand Capella's and IonQ's joint presence across the national security space enterprise.
This role requires an active TS/SCI with poly.
Responsibilities
Mission-Focused Leadership
Lead and scale Federal Business Development, Federal Solutions Engineering, and Federal Customer Support teams with a clear focus on enabling U.S. Government missions.
Drive organizational transformation from transactional data sales to integrated satellite and quantum mission delivery.
Establish mission-focused objectives, performance standards, and a culture of accountability and innovation.
Federal Growth & Capture Excellence
Develop and execute capture strategies for strategic opportunities across the DoD, Intelligence Community, and Civil agencies.
Leverage senior-level relationships to position Capella and IonQ as trusted partners for warfighters, analysts, and policymakers.
Build and maintain a robust pipeline of near-term ( 2 years) pursuits aligned with national security priorities.
Quantum-Space Integration & Strategy
Lead initiatives at the intersection of IonQ's quantum technologies and Capella's satellite platforms, delivering capabilities in secure communications, resilient architectures, advanced analytics, and quantum-enhanced sensing.
Serve as the external and internal champion for U.S. Government quantum-space strategy, ensuring Capella is viewed as a front-line partner in shaping this new domain.
Work closely with engineering, product, and R&D teams to ensure quantum-space integration aligns with federal mission needs and program opportunities.
Solutions & Mission Delivery
Direct solutions engineering efforts to translate national security requirements into integrated space-quantum architectures.
Oversee federal customer support to deliver responsiveness, trust, and enduring mission outcomes.
Provide operational and strategic insight to inform corporate investment and product development decisions.
Strategic Partnerships & Advocacy
Establish alliances, teaming agreements, and subcontracting relationships to enhance competitiveness and mission relevance.
Support advocacy, policy, and export initiatives related to quantum and space.
Represent Capella and IonQ at national security, space, and quantum industry events.
Operational Excellence
Work with capture team on proposal efforts as both prime and subcontractor.
Partner with internal stakeholders to drive targeted campaigns for federal stakeholders.
Maintain precise CRM records (HubSpot) and deliver accurate forecasts and pipeline metrics.
Qualifications
10+ years of business development, capture management, or program leadership experience in national security space, defense, or aerospace sectors.
Demonstrated success building and leading high-performing federal teams across BD, solutions engineering, or customer-facing functions.
Deep understanding of U.S. Government acquisition strategies, contracting vehicles, and mission priorities across the DoD and Intelligence Community.
Strong knowledge of space systems, remote sensing, and GEOINT; SAR experience highly desirable.
Extensive, active network of senior contacts within the national security space and quantum innovation ecosystems.
Proven track record of winning major federal space programs and influencing strategy at the national level.
Outstanding communication skills with the ability to engage senior government and industry leaders.
Proficient with CRM platforms.
Mission-driven, innovative, and capable of operating in dynamic, fast-moving environments.
(Preferred) Familiarity with or direct experience in quantum technologies (computing, networking, or sensing) and their application to space or national security missions.
IoT, ITAR compliance: Capella employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Compensation The annual salary range for this role as posted is $193,600 – $242,000. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education, qualification, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location and calibrated against relevant market data and internal team equity. Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.
Benefits / Perks
We provide extensive medical coverage, including strong vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options.
Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Parental Leave program
Lifestyle Spending Account
Commuter & Parking Benefits
Mental Health Resources
Monthly Phone Stipend
Dog-friendly work environment & pet insurance options
Equal Opportunity Statement Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process, please notify recruiting@capellaspace.com.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About Capella Space Capella Space is a pioneer in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. We empower government, commercial, and research organizations around the world with high-resolution, timely Earth insights that drive better decisions across defense and intelligence, disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, environmental protection, energy, and more.
As a U.S.-based company, Capella designs, builds, and operates an advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites in orbit today. Our satellites are backed by a fully automated tasking, collection, and delivery platform, delivering fast, reliable insights when and where our customers need them most. As a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, Capella is charting the future of Earth observation. Together, we're on a mission to bring quantum computing to space — unlocking ultra-secure, encrypted uplink and downlink capabilities, reducing latency, and enabling powerful on-orbit analytics. This visionary integration of advanced remote sensing and quantum technology will support customers with the highest level of data fidelity, security, and speed.
Capella was named one of Fast Company's 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023 and is a trusted partner of the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, NASA, the National Reconnaissance Office, and allied government agencies worldwide.
What Makes Capella Unique? At Capella, we don't just imagine what's possible — we build it. We're a mission-driven team fueled by curiosity, grit, and a shared commitment to redefining the limits of space innovation. Our environment is fast paced, rooted in humble collaboration. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and our industry. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossible — we're the place for you.
About the Team Capella's Business Development team partners with defense, intelligence, and civil leaders to deliver space-based capabilities that strengthen U.S. national security. We work alongside engineers, solutions architects, and product strategists to bring resilient satellite systems — and now, integrated quantum technologies — to the missions that need them most.
About the Role We are seeking an exceptional
Director of Business Development, Mission Solutions
to lead our Federal Business Development, Federal Solutions Engineering, and Federal Customer Support teams. In this role, you will transform our go-to-market strategy — evolving from data-centric sales into the delivery of
integrated satellite and quantum mission solutions
that directly enable U.S. Government missions.
This leader will also serve as the
focal point for advancing the nexus of IonQ's quantum technologies and Capella's space capabilities , positioning the company at the forefront of the U.S. Government's emerging
quantum-space strategy . By combining resilient satellites with quantum computing, sensing, and secure networking, you will lead efforts to define, capture, and execute programs that set the pace for national security innovation.
This is a high-impact leadership role for a visionary with the network, technical acumen, and operational drive to expand Capella's and IonQ's joint presence across the national security space enterprise.
This role requires an active TS/SCI with poly.
Responsibilities
Mission-Focused Leadership
Lead and scale Federal Business Development, Federal Solutions Engineering, and Federal Customer Support teams with a clear focus on enabling U.S. Government missions.
Drive organizational transformation from transactional data sales to integrated satellite and quantum mission delivery.
Establish mission-focused objectives, performance standards, and a culture of accountability and innovation.
Federal Growth & Capture Excellence
Develop and execute capture strategies for strategic opportunities across the DoD, Intelligence Community, and Civil agencies.
Leverage senior-level relationships to position Capella and IonQ as trusted partners for warfighters, analysts, and policymakers.
Build and maintain a robust pipeline of near-term ( 2 years) pursuits aligned with national security priorities.
Quantum-Space Integration & Strategy
Lead initiatives at the intersection of IonQ's quantum technologies and Capella's satellite platforms, delivering capabilities in secure communications, resilient architectures, advanced analytics, and quantum-enhanced sensing.
Serve as the external and internal champion for U.S. Government quantum-space strategy, ensuring Capella is viewed as a front-line partner in shaping this new domain.
Work closely with engineering, product, and R&D teams to ensure quantum-space integration aligns with federal mission needs and program opportunities.
Solutions & Mission Delivery
Direct solutions engineering efforts to translate national security requirements into integrated space-quantum architectures.
Oversee federal customer support to deliver responsiveness, trust, and enduring mission outcomes.
Provide operational and strategic insight to inform corporate investment and product development decisions.
Strategic Partnerships & Advocacy
Establish alliances, teaming agreements, and subcontracting relationships to enhance competitiveness and mission relevance.
Support advocacy, policy, and export initiatives related to quantum and space.
Represent Capella and IonQ at national security, space, and quantum industry events.
Operational Excellence
Work with capture team on proposal efforts as both prime and subcontractor.
Partner with internal stakeholders to drive targeted campaigns for federal stakeholders.
Maintain precise CRM records (HubSpot) and deliver accurate forecasts and pipeline metrics.
Qualifications
10+ years of business development, capture management, or program leadership experience in national security space, defense, or aerospace sectors.
Demonstrated success building and leading high-performing federal teams across BD, solutions engineering, or customer-facing functions.
Deep understanding of U.S. Government acquisition strategies, contracting vehicles, and mission priorities across the DoD and Intelligence Community.
Strong knowledge of space systems, remote sensing, and GEOINT; SAR experience highly desirable.
Extensive, active network of senior contacts within the national security space and quantum innovation ecosystems.
Proven track record of winning major federal space programs and influencing strategy at the national level.
Outstanding communication skills with the ability to engage senior government and industry leaders.
Proficient with CRM platforms.
Mission-driven, innovative, and capable of operating in dynamic, fast-moving environments.
(Preferred) Familiarity with or direct experience in quantum technologies (computing, networking, or sensing) and their application to space or national security missions.
IoT, ITAR compliance: Capella employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Compensation The annual salary range for this role as posted is $193,600 – $242,000. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education, qualification, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location and calibrated against relevant market data and internal team equity. Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.
Benefits / Perks
We provide extensive medical coverage, including strong vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options.
Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
Parental Leave program
Lifestyle Spending Account
Commuter & Parking Benefits
Mental Health Resources
Monthly Phone Stipend
Dog-friendly work environment & pet insurance options
Equal Opportunity Statement Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process, please notify recruiting@capellaspace.com.
#J-18808-Ljbffr