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,