Director, Business Development, Federal Solutions

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 were 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 ofFast Companys 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023and 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. Built In recognized IonQ on three of its 2025 Best Places to Worklists.

What Makes Capella Unique

At Capella we dont just imagine whats possible - we build it. Were 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 youre ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossiblewere the place for you. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere and we thrive on diverse perspectives that help us move faster think deeper and push the boundaries of innovation. Whether youre new to the space industry or a seasoned expert youll find a team that values creativity integrity and bold thinking. Join us as we build the future of SARand take quantum to space.

About the Team

Capellas 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 systemsand now integrated quantum technologiesto the missions that need them most. Were seeking a leader who can inspire teams build trusted relationships with government partners and drive the integration of space and quantum to ensure mission success at the speed of need.

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 this role you will transform our go-to-market strategyevolving 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 IonQs quantum technologies and Capellas space capabilities positioning the company at the forefront of the U.S. Governments 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 Capellas and IonQs 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) and long-term (>2 years) pursuits aligned with national security priorities.
• Quantum-Space Integration & Strategy
  • Lead initiatives at the intersection of IonQs quantum technologies and Capellas 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.
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current 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 ITARhere.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $193600 - $242000. 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

In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• 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
• Furry friends Weve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with 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

To learn more about us explore our site: and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!