Business Development Director, South Korea

About the role

Telesat is seeking a leader to drive the market entry and growth of the Lightspeed LEO satellite network within South Korea. You will manage local operations and build high-level relationships to secure contracts with government, defense, and telecommunications entities.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Execute the South Korea market strategy for satellite services in partnership with regional headquarters in Singapore and global headquarters in Ottawa.
• Build revenue streams and order backlogs by targeting MNOs, ISPs, telcos, and defense or civil government service providers.
• Lead complex contract negotiations and establish strategic wholesale partnerships.
• Manage senior-level relationships with key stakeholders, political entities, and decision-makers in the target ecosystem.
• Promote the Lightspeed network to commercial and government end-users to influence long-term connectivity requirements.
• Analyze local regulatory, technical, and operational requirements.
• Collaborate with internal product, engineering, and commercial teams to customize solutions for local customer needs.
• Monitor competitive trends and procurement programs to refine regional business plans.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in strategic sales, business development, or government relations within the telecommunications, satellite, or defense sectors.
• Deep working knowledge of South Korean defense, institutional, and telecommunications ecosystems, including procurement environments.
• Proven experience engaging with public institutions, government agencies, and industrial partners.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex sales cycles involving technical and executive stakeholders.
• Ability to navigate politically sensitive environments and coordinate with institutional actors.
• MBA or an advanced degree in engineering or business.
• Fluency in both Korean and English, written and spoken.

Nice to have

• Understanding of secure connectivity, critical communications, mobility, or satellite communications environments.

Skills & tools

• Strategic deal structuring
• High-level relationship management
• Cross-cultural communication within matrixed organizations
• Executive presentation and reporting
• Governance and ethical standards

Practical notes

Telesat is an equal opportunity employer. The company provides accommodations during the interview process for qualified candidates; please inform the talent team if you require assistance. All accommodation requests are handled with confidentiality.