Launch Program Director

Here's a shortened, anonymized version. Client identity masked, Markham swapped to Toronto, and cut down to about half the length so competing agencies can't reverse-engineer who you're working with.

Our client, a Canadian orbital launch and space systems company, is hiring a Launch Program Director to own the end-to-end delivery of their launch vehicle and launch site programs. This is a foundational leadership seat reporting directly to the CEO, with full accountability for technical, schedule, budget, and business outcomes from concept through flight.

Program strategy, lifecycle management, and phase-gate discipline across vehicle and ground system development. Integrated program budget, schedule, and resource planning. Executive and board-level reporting. Launch campaign execution including readiness reviews, range coordination, and post-flight reviews. Key customer, supplier, regulatory, and government stakeholder relationships. Program-level risk management and decision-making under uncertainty. Building and mentoring the program management team as the organization scales.

• Bachelor's in Engineering (Master's preferred) or equivalent leader-level experience
• 8 to 10 years in launch system development and operations (orbital or suborbital)
• Track record leading full lifecycle programs through flight campaigns
• Strong command of program management fundamentals: budgeting, scheduling, earned value, and executive reporting on large-scale hardware programs
• Working knowledge of launch operations, range safety, and countdown procedures
• Familiarity with Transport Canada, FAA, or equivalent regulatory frameworks
• Proven ability to lead in fast-paced, rapid-iteration environments
• Canadian work authorization or eligibility to obtain it