Program Manager - UAE

Role overview

This position is for a Program Manager based in the United Arab Emirates, preferably in or near Abu Dhabi, working from ICEYE’s facility. The role sits within the Missions line of business and reports to the Program Director. It is a permanent role with a hybrid workplace model, and employment depends on passing the required security screening, including SUPO checks where applicable. Regular travel to Espoo, Finland, and to customer locations is part of the job.

Why this role matters

You will own the full delivery cycle of satellite mission programs, making sure customer objectives are met, timelines are respected, and delivery execution remains scalable and dependable. From contract handover through final delivery, you will coordinate across engineering, product, operations, and commercial functions to keep the program on track and maintain strong customer trust. The role supports ICEYE’s goal of becoming a leading provider of space-based ISR infrastructure by expanding reliable mission delivery worldwide.

About ICEYE

ICEYE is a global leader in sovereign intelligence from space. The company provides persistent monitoring capabilities that help detect and respond to changes anywhere on Earth. It operates the world’s largest and most advanced SAR satellite constellation, delivering intelligence with strong quality, low latency, and frequent revisit times in all weather conditions, day or night. ICEYE serves customers in defence and intelligence, environmental monitoring, insurance, and emergency management, and also offers sovereign constellation systems for governments. Headquartered in Finland and founded there, the company now has more than 1,000 employees across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.

Key responsibilities

• Direct the full planning, execution, and delivery of satellite mission programs, keeping schedules, budgets, performance targets, and quality standards on course.
• Develop and nurture trusted customer relationships through clear communication, prompt issue handling, and dependable delivery that encourages satisfaction and repeat engagement.
• Create and update integrated program plans that align stakeholders, resources, budgets, and milestones to support efficient execution and financial control.
• Spot, assess, and manage program risks, interdependencies, and escalations early to reduce disruption and protect delivery commitments.
• Bring cross-functional teams and stakeholders into alignment, remove execution blockers, and improve mission throughput, predictability, and delivery speed.
• Prepare accurate reporting, dashboards, and governance updates so leadership can make timely decisions and intervene early when needed.

Requirements

• 5 to 10 years of experience delivering complex, multi-stakeholder programs in advanced technology settings such as space, defence, telecom, automotive, or IT.
• Strong client-facing skills, including the ability to work with senior stakeholders and handle demanding requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams toward shared outcomes.
• Deep experience in end-to-end program management, covering planning, execution, governance, scope, schedule, budget, and risk.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and sound judgment in uncertain situations.
• Excellent communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A degree in business, engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Must already have UAE residence status or be able to obtain it.

Preferred qualifications

• Exposure to Earth Observation, SAR, or remote sensing work.
• Experience in complex systems or product development settings.
• Background working with government or defence customers.
• Knowledge of hardware, software, or embedded systems development.
• An advanced degree such as a Master’s, or relevant certifications like PMP or PgMP.

Application process

• Introductory screening conversation with Talent Attraction.
• Interview with the Mission Program Director.
• Case study followed by an interview with a Senior Program Manager.
• Final conversation with the SVP of Missions.
• Reference checks.

Working style and culture

At ICEYE, you will join a diverse, highly engaged team focused on turning ambitious goals into reality. As a scale-up, the company combines speed with ownership from day one. Growth, wellbeing, and success are supported through continuous development, training opportunities, and a collaborative culture.

Values

• Make the impossible possible: set ambitious goals, stay steady under pressure, and keep pushing until a solution is found.
• Be curious: ask questions, listen closely, and think critically about the reasons behind decisions.
• See the big picture: stay aware of broader company priorities and understand how your work affects others.
• Drive effective teamwork: build psychological safety, welcome diverse viewpoints, and create inclusive teams.
• Act as one team: collaborate to win together and adapt quickly as priorities change.
• Have fun: enjoy the work, recognize progress, and celebrate results together.

Benefits and inclusion

Benefits are intended to support health and wellbeing at work and beyond. They are continuously refined based on employee feedback and may vary by location. The Talent Acquisition team will confirm what applies to this role during the hiring process.

ICEYE is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and fair hiring. The company aims to create a workplace where people can bring their authentic selves, feel respected, and speak up freely. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and reasonable adjustments or support can be requested during recruitment.

Additional information

Applicants for this role should note that employment is permanent, the workplace model is hybrid, and travel to Espoo and customer sites is required. Security screening is part of the hiring and employment process where applicable.