Private Sector Engagement Expert

About the role

The Private Sector Engagement Expert will support the Africa‑EU Space Partnership Programme (AESPP Boost) by fostering private‑sector participation, business development and investment across African and European space ecosystems. The role involves analysing markets, facilitating partnerships and promoting commercial opportunities in the space, geospatial and technology sectors.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and engage companies, entrepreneurs and investors to stimulate private‑sector involvement in space‑related projects.
• Conduct market and value‑chain analyses to pinpoint opportunities for innovation and commercialisation.
• Provide business development support, matchmaking services and guidance on access to finance.
• Contribute to policy dialogue, institutional partnerships and knowledge‑exchange activities between Africa and the EU.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for the AESPP Boost proposal and subsequent implementation phases.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in economics, business administration, engineering, innovation management or a related field (or four additional years of relevant experience).
• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in private‑sector development, industrial cooperation, innovation, business development or investment facilitation.
• At least 4 years of experience engaging companies, entrepreneurs or investors, including market analysis, matchmaking and access‑to‑finance activities.
• Experience in the space, geospatial or technology sector, preferably with exposure to African markets.
• Excellent command of English; working knowledge of French and/or Portuguese is an asset.

Required skills