VP of Satellite Systems

As the VP of Satellite Systems at Xona, your main responsibilities will include architecting the entire satellite system to align with mission requirements, leading the technical integration of subsystems like payload, communications, and propulsion, and developing a comprehensive execution strategy that includes risk management. You will also recruit and lead a high-performance engineering team and collaborate closely with other departments to ensure a unified approach.

To qualify for the VP of Satellite Systems role at Xona, candidates should have significant experience in system architecture or integration for spacecraft, especially in LEO or commercial satellite programs. You’ll need to understand satellite subsystems in-depth and demonstrate the ability to make informed buy-vs-build decisions while managing associated risks in a fast-paced environment.

At Xona, the work environment for the VP of Satellite Systems is dynamic and fast-paced, characteristic of a startup atmosphere. You will be working onsite in Burlingame, California, emphasizing collaboration and urgency to achieve complex goals. Expect to lead a talented team, drive innovative projects, and engage in high-level strategy discussions that push boundaries in satellite navigation technology.

Xona ensures alignment of subsystems within the satellite system through comprehensive architectural oversight. The VP of Satellite Systems will lead this effort by coordinating with various technical leads and departments, verifying that all subsystems are integrated correctly to meet performance objectives. This collaborative approach is critical to maintaining a high standard of operational efficiency.

Having a deep understanding of satellite subsystems is vital for the VP of Satellite Systems at Xona because it drives effective decision-making and integration strategies. This knowledge allows you to communicate effectively with your team, manage interdependencies, and make informed choices about system architecture, ensuring the success of satellite missions and the advancement of our navigation technologies.

When answering this question, focus on your previous roles involving satellite system design, highlighting specific projects you led or contributed to. Emphasize how you approached system architecture and the outcomes achieved, showcasing your technical expertise and leadership in system integration.

To effectively manage risks, discuss your systematic approach to identifying, analyzing, and mitigating potential risks early in the development cycle. Provide examples of how you balanced performance with schedule and reliability, illustrating your decision-making process under pressure.

Highlight your philosophy on leadership and team building, focusing on how you attract and retain top talent. Discuss your strategies for fostering a high-performance culture, ensuring collaboration, and empowering your team to contribute their best work towards shared goals.

Share a specific situation where you had to evaluate whether to buy or build a subsystem. Discuss the factors you considered, the options you weighed, and the final decision made, showcasing your analytical skills and ability to justify your conclusions to stakeholders.

Talk about how you establish priorities based on project goals, deadlines, and team capabilities. Discuss any tools or methodologies you use to keep everything organized and your approach to managing unforeseen changes or challenges.

Emphasize the importance of cross-department collaboration and communication. Discuss any frameworks or strategies you’ve implemented to facilitate this synergy and ensure everyone is aligned with the project objectives, including regular meetings and updates.

Detail the specific technical requirements you assess when evaluating potential suppliers, such as reliability, past performance, cost, and compliance with industry standards. Highlight your experience with maintaining high technical standards and partnerships.

Be honest about the challenges you encountered in your previous roles, but focus on how you addressed them. Discuss specific obstacles and the lessons learned, emphasizing your resilience and problem-solving capabilities.

Describe your methods for keeping current with industry advancements, such as attending conferences, engaging with industry publications, or networking with other professionals. Point out how this knowledge informs your strategic decisions within your role.

When responding, share your thoughts on the evolving landscape of satellite navigation, like potential technologies, market shifts, and new applications. Demonstrating a forward-thinking perspective will show interviewers your passion and insight into the industry's future.