Operations Director

Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Established in 2024 following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42’s global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. 

Our vision is to pioneer beyond today for humanity to experience a better tomorrow. Space42 challenges traditional approaches with advanced AI and cutting-edge satellite technology, making space more accessible and redefining how data from space can be used on Earth. We aim to achieve this by connecting people to rewire potential, informing decisions to reimagine impact and enabling action to redefine tomorrow. 

For more information visit: www.space42.ai, follow us on X and Instagram @Space42ai

ROLE PURPOSE

In your role as Operations Director – Autonomous Mobility, you will be spearheading the operational strategy, execution, and performance of Space42’s autonomous mobility business, including autonomous vehicle (AV) ride-hailing services, public transportation solutions, and logistics automation. Using your vision, and deep understanding of urban mobility, transportation infrastructure, regulatory compliance, and financial performance, you will ensure innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, transforming the urban and commercial transportation industry.

• Manage operational budgets, financial planning, and cost structures for Autonomous Vehicle (AV) deployments across markets.
• Develop revenue models and funding strategies, including public-private partnerships, government grants, and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) models.
• Identify cost reduction strategies without compromising AV performance and safety.
• Oversee data-driven financial forecasting to assess profitability and scalability.
• Lead initiatives to optimize mobility solutions for revenue growth and investment efficiency.
• Develop and implement autonomous public transportation initiatives, integrating AVs with existing transit networks.
• Collaborate with city planners, transit agencies, and government stakeholders to enhance accessibility and sustainability.
• Work with policymakers to establish AV-friendly infrastructure and smart city integration.
• Optimize multimodal transportation ecosystems, ensuring seamless coordination between AVs, buses, rail, and micro-mobility options.
• Advocate for equitable and inclusive mobility solutions that serve diverse communities.
• Ensure AV operations adhere to federal, state, and local transportation laws.
• Work with regulatory agencies, policymakers, and safety commissions to establish best practices for AV deployment.
• Oversee AV safety audits, testing procedures, and incident response protocols.
• Develop and maintain a crisis management strategy for AV-related disruptions or failures.
• Build and lead a high-performance operations team, including transit strategists, urban planners, and compliance officers.
• Collaborate with engineering, product, and AI teams to refine AV operational capabilities.
• Work closely with marketing & business development to optimize service rollouts in key markets.
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement in the mobility ecosystem.
• Ensure passenger safety, comfort, and satisfaction by monitoring AV service quality.
• Address customer inquiries, incidents, and support escalations related to AV operations.
• Oversee the development of user-friendly mobility platforms (apps and dashboards) for ride-hailing and fleet services.
• Implement real-time feedback loops to improve autonomous driving behaviors and rider experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Transportation, Urban Planning, or related field with an MBA as a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in operations leadership within autonomous mobility, transportation planning, or smart mobility solutions.
• Strong understanding of autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, urban transportation infrastructure, and public transit systems.
• Experience managing government contracts, city partnerships, and public-private mobility initiatives.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and collaborate with regulatory, technical, and commercial stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with expertise in mobility data analytics, operational KPIs, and business intelligence tools.  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Master’s degree (MBA, M.S. in Transportation, Urban Mobility, or AI Systems).
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
• Experience in AV pilot programs, public transit planning, or government-funded mobility projects.
• Familiarity with V2X communication, smart city initiatives, and AI-based traffic optimization.
• Strong background in mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platform deployment.
• Knowledge of carbon neutrality and ESG policies.

OUR BENEFITS & PERKS

• Competitive compensation packages and comprehensive medical insurance to support you and your family.
• Wellbeing-focused initiatives and resources, designed to enhance your personal and professional life.
• Flexibility to balance work and life, with hybrid work options tailored to role requirements.
• Access to exclusive discount programs, offering savings across various lifestyle and leisure experiences across the UAE.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT FIT

If you are performance-driven and possess an inquisitive mind with the agility to navigate ambiguity, you will thrive here. At the heart of the Space42 community is a bias for action and a passion for developing innovative, efficient space services through AI-driven smart solutions that drive technological advancements and create a better tomorrow.