Chief of Staff

CHIEF OF STAFF

This is a future role. We're building a shortlist now and will contact you when it opens.

About us

Foundational is building the most precise picture of Earth and orbit, using lasers fired from the ground. We call it ground truth for orbit.

We design and run low-cost, autonomous satellite laser ranging stations. They measure the distance to satellites with extreme precision, day and night. Our data platform turns those measurements into tracking data and orbit products for satellite operators, space agencies and governments. We also build our own flight-proven laser retroreflector arrays, so any satellite can be tracked.

Our station network is expanding across Europe, South America, Africa and Australia. The data supports resilient navigation, Earth observation and the safe, sustainable use of space.

We're a small, fast-moving team of engineers, scientists and operators in London. We're backed by venture investors and supported by ESA, the UK Space Agency, Innovate UK and the European Innovation Council.

Position Overview

London · Full time · On-site

You'll be the CEO's right hand. You'll make sure the company's priorities are clear, resourced and delivered.

What you'll do

• Run the operating rhythm: planning, goals, leadership meetings and follow-up
• Lead strategic projects across teams
• Prepare board and investor materials, and support fundraising
• Act as a trusted link between the leadership team and the wider company
• Step in to lead areas that don't yet have an owner

What you'll bring

• 5+ years in strategy, consulting, operations or a high-growth startup
• A proven record of leading complex projects across teams
• Excellent judgement, discretion and communication
• Comfort moving between detail and the big picture

Nice to have

• Space, defence or deep-tech experience
• Fundraising experience
• A technical background

What We Offer

• A high-impact role with real ownership at an early-stage, venture-backed spacetech company
• EMI share options (UK employees)
• 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
• Enhanced Parental Leave
• Cycle to work schemes
• Work alongside engineers and scientists across optics, lasers, software and astrodynamics
• Offices in central London, with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socials

We actively champion underrepresented groups and seek to bridge gaps in our workforce. If you're excited by the role but don't match every point, or you’re seeking a part time role, please apply anyway and add a note into your application. Building the best team is our priority.