Director of Strategic Projects (All genders)

At Stark, we forge the future of European and national security through cutting-edge, AI-driven technology and unmatched engineering precision. As a premier defence technology company, our mission is clear: to equip NATO Allies and their partners

with next-generation autonomous defence platforms and advanced AI-driven software built to perform in the world’s most demanding environments. We believe that true security stems from relentless innovation. By combining elite engineering talent with agile technology and an AI-native operational culture, Stark turns complex defence challenges into field-tested, multi-domain solutions. WHY JOIN US The software and systems you work on directly protect personnel and defend European and national sovereignty. You will work alongside industry-leading minds on autonomous systems, advanced propulsion, and secure cyber platforms. We foster a fast-paced, collaborative environment where bold ideas are supported by serious R&D backing.

ABOUT THE TEAM

You will work directly with the VP of STARK to drive key strategic initiatives and high-impact operational engagements across Europe. Our team operates at the intersection of strategy, defence engineering, and scale-up execution to rapidly deploy modern defense technologies. You will collaborate closely with engineering leads, production specialists, and external stakeholders in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. YOUR MISSION As a Director of Strategic Projects, you will support the VP of STARK and own the end-to-end delivery of strategic engagements across Ukraine and partner nations. You will structure complex, ambiguous problems into distinct workstreams – ranging from assessing production capacity for major missile programs to defining aftermarket parts strategies – ensuring rapid execution and measurable impact in contested environments.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

AT STARK Lead end-to-end delivery of high-priority strategic projects in support of the VP of STARK. Structure ambiguous defence challenges into actionable workstreams and operational roadmaps. Assess and optimize manufacturing capacity and supply chains for major defense programs, including missile systems. Develop and execute comprehensive aftermarket parts strategies and field sustainment models. Manage cross-functional project teams across engineering, manufacturing, and procurement to hit aggressive deadlines. Communicate findings, strategic risks, and milestone updates directly to executive leadership and military partners.

WHAT YOU BRING

TO THE MISSION Owning the end-to-end delivery of the engagement. This involves structuring ambiguous problems into distinct workstreams (e.g., assessing production capacity for a missile program or building an aftermarket parts strategy). Exceptional structured problem-solving and quantitative modeling skills; expert capability to break down highly ambiguous operational, industrial, and strategic defense challenges into executable workstreams. Demonstrated experience advising C-level executives, senior military stakeholders, and ministry officials, alongside managing high-performing cross-functional project teams. Deep interest in modern defense technology, autonomous systems, and hardware manufacturing, with the drive to scale mission-critical defense capabilities across Ukraine and NATO partners. Fluency in English. Based in or willing to relocate to Kyiv, Ukraine, with willingness to travel across European partner nations.

NICE TO HAVE

Prior exposure to defense technologies, aerospace manufacturing, or hardware production programs. Experience with supply chain optimization and aftermarket logistics in complex markets. If you're interested in building the future of European Defence with us, and you see yourself reflected on the description above, please send us your CV in English . We're looking forward to meeting you!

SECURITY CLEARANCE Due to the nature of our work in the defence sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for this position. Details will be provided during the recruitment process.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

DATA PRIVACY STATEMENT This data privacy statement, which refers exclusively to data collected as part of the online application process, is to inform you about how your personal data that is collected as part of the online application process is handled at our end. The controller The controller under data protection law is: SKD SE Französische Strasse 12, 10117 Berlin Commercial register entry number: HRB 260878 Registration Court: Amtsgericht Charlottenburg Data Protection officer: heyData GmbH, Schützenstraße 5, 10117 Berlin, www.heydata.eu , ----- Personal data collected as part of the application process Personal data means any information concerning the personal or material circumstances of an identified or identifiable individual. This includes information such as, for example, your name, address, telephone number and date of birth, but also data relating to your specific career etc. by reference to which a specific individual can be identified with reasonable effort. However, information which cannot be (in)directly associated with your real-life identity is not personal data. Fundamentals and purposes of processing personal data collected from application documents and during the application process If you apply to us electronically, i.e. via e-mail or using our online form, we will collect and process your personal data for the purpose of executing the application process and preparing contracts. By submitting an application via our recruitment website, you express your interest in taking up work with us. In