Director, Space Programs & Partnerships

About the role

This role is based in our New York or DC office. Aviation Week is the largest multimedia information and services provider for the global aviation, aerospace, and defense industries. As part of Informa Markets, we connect buyers and sellers through industry-leading content, events, and digital platforms.

Our space portfolio represents our commitment to advancing innovation and thought leadership in the rapidly evolving space sector. Aviation Week is seeking a strategic, commercially minded Director of Space Programs & Partnerships to serve as the operational driver of our expanding space portfolio.

Reporting to the VP of Marketing & Events Strategy, you will manage the day-to-day execution and growth of Aviation Week's position at Space Tech Expo, including the Space Tech Challenge Awards, STAR Pavilion, and commercial space content monetization initiatives.

This role combines commercial execution with content strategy, translating the company's vision into delivered results while building strategic partnerships and driving revenue growth. Role Accountability and

Duties

Event & Program Management Execute strategic direction for Aviation Week's position at Space Tech Expo US, managing exhibitor sales operations, content programming coordination, and on-site delivery Manage Space Tech Challenge Awards freelancer and oversee operations from sponsor acquisition through judging coordination, promotion, and awards ceremony execution Implement and scale STAR Pavilion and Commercial Space Media Pavilion concepts, managing exhibitor packages, sponsorship fulfillment, and programming logistics Serve as primary relationship manager for strategic partnerships (e.g., Commercial Space Federation), ensuring deliverables are met and value is maximized Manage strategic direction for Aviation Week's engagement and participation with other related Space events within the overall community.

Commercial Development & Revenue Growth Support P&L management for space events and sponsorship programs, tracking performance against targets Execute exhibitor and sponsorship sales strategies, including bundled membership models and content-driven packages Identify and develop new revenue opportunities across events, digital platforms, and content partnerships Coordinate with sales teams on exhibitor acquisition, retention campaigns, and upsell execution Content Strategy & Monetization Manage advertorial and sponsored content program execution, maintaining editorial standards while delivering sponsor value Implement content distribution plans to amplify event programming and extend post-event engagement Support initiatives to monetize Aviation Week's space publications and digital platforms Cross-Functional Coordination Coordinate across marketing, editorial, production, and operations teams to deliver seamless event experiences Manage external vendors, contractors, and agency partners on behalf of the VP Prepare quarterly business reviews and performance reports for VP and key stakeholders Represent Aviation Week at industry events and with commercial space stakeholders as directed

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential Experience & Skills 7+ years in event management, business development, or commercial operations within aerospace, defense, or B2B media Demonstrated success managing complex programs and delivering against revenue targets Strong understanding of the commercial space ecosystem (suppliers, primes, government, investors) Experience managing strategic partnerships and coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives Ability to work effectively between editorial/content teams and commercial functions Excellent project management skills with ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and keep VP informed of progress Strong commercial acumen with experience executing sponsorship and exhibitor programs Proven ability to build and scale teams, including hiring and onboarding sales and operational staff Experience with multi-phase strategic launches and change management initiatives Desirable Experience with awards programs, pavilion concepts, or media theater models Familiarity with Aviation Week brand and aerospace/defense media landscape Existing relationships within commercial space industry Background in content marketing or sponsored content operations Personal Attributes Self-starter who can translate strategic direction into operational execution Collaborative team player who thrives supporting senior leadership in matrixed environments Detail-oriented with strong follow-through and accountability Comfortable operating in fast-paced, evolving markets with shifting priorities Excellent communication skills and ability to manage effectively Proactive problem-solver who escalates issues appropriately

Additional Information

We believe that great things happen when people connect face-to-face. That's why we work in-person with each other, or with customers and partners, three days a week or more. When you're not spending time together in one of our offices or other workplaces - like at an Informa event - you get the flexibility and support to work from home or remotely.

We work hard to make sure Life at Informa is rewarding, supportive and enjoyable for everyone. Here's some of what you can expect when you join us.

But don't just take our word for it - see what our colleagues have to say at LifeAt.Informa.com Our benefits include: Great community: a welcoming culture with in-person and online social events, our fantastic Walk the World charity day and active colleague groups and networks promoting a positive, supportive, and collaborative work environment Broader impact: take up to four days per year to volunteer, with charity match funding available too Career opportunity: the opportunity to develop your career with bespoke training and learning, mentoring platforms and on-demand access to thousands of courses on LinkedIn Learning.

When it's time for the next step, we encourage and support internal job moves Time out: 15 days PTO rising to 20 after three years and 25 after six years, plus 10 national holidays, a birthday leave day and the chance to work from (almost!) anywhere for up to four weeks a year Competitive benefits, including a 401k match, health, vision and dental insurance, parental leave and an ESPP offering company shares at a minimum 15% discount Strong wellbeing support through EAP assistance, mental health first aiders, free access to a wellness app and more Recognition for great work, with global awards and kudos programs As an international company, the chance to collaborate with teams around the world The salary range for this role is $140,000-$170,000 based on experience.

This posting will automatically expire on 11/15/2026. We're not solely focused on a checklist of skills. We champion energy and ambition and look for colleagues who will roll their sleeves up, join in and help make things happen. If it sounds like a match and you have most - although not all - of the skills and experience listed, we welcome your application.

If you would like to request reasonable adjustments or accommodations to assist your participation in the hiring process and, or in the advertised position, please inform the appropriate Talent Acquisition Partner for the role once they have been in touch. Your request will be reviewed and considered in confidence. At Informa, you'll find inclusive experiences and environments where all perspectives and backgrounds are welcomed.

This means we base decisions on relevant qualifications and merit and do not discriminate on the basis of key characteristics and statuses, including all of those protected by law. Ask us or see our website for full information. See how Informa handles your personal data when you apply for a job here.