Senior Trade Compliance Manager
HEO is the world’s first commercial non-Earth imaging (NEI) and insights services company. NEI involves capturing resolved imagery of space objects using cameras mounted on other satellites, and deriving information and intelligence from the captured imagery. Our technology helps governments and commercial companies to visually monitor their spacecraft and other space objects they care about. Our vision is to image anything in the solar system on-demand. Read more about NEI here.
We are building out a high performing interdisciplinary team capable of pushing the boundaries of space technology. We are growing fast and looking for talented, passionate people that value collaboration, growth and learning to join our team.
HEO is a post Series-A company backed by high profile venture funds including Airtree, Y Combinator and In-Q-Tel. We are headquartered in Sydney, Australia with offices in London, Tokyo, UK and Washington DC, USA.
About the role:
This is a senior, newly created role responsible for building and owning HEO's trade compliance function from the ground up. You will formally hold the Technology Control Manager (TCM) role under our Trade Compliance Plan, carrying accountability for company-wide export compliance across the DSGL, ITAR, EAR, and AUKUS framework. You will work closely with our external trade compliance consultant and report to the Head of Operations.
Your key responsibilities:
Building the framework
- Take ownership of the Trade Compliance Plan and drive implementation across the business, working with our external consultant on Export Control and relevant internal teams to close gaps
- Stand up the core compliance infrastructure: screening registers, export logging, training programs, access controls, physical and digital markings, visitor management, and record-keeping systems
- Embed compliant processes into day-to-day workflows across ops, HR, procurement, and engineering
- Develop and support the delivery of export control training, including induction for new starters and role-specific training for engineering and procurement teams
Maintaining operational compliance integrity:
- Hold the TCM role with associated legal accountability for company-wide export compliance across DSGL, ITAR, EAR, and the AUKUS framework
- Manage Export Authorisations end-to-end: applications, conditions, renewals, records, and associated correspondence.
- Run Denied Party Screening and personnel screening across all relevant interactions: hires, visitors, suppliers, transfers, and authorisation applications
- Oversee receipt and transfer of controlled technology, including classification of incoming goods, quarantine procedures, and international shipment compliance
- Manage incident reporting and Voluntary Disclosure processes; conduct regular self-assessments and internal audits
- Monitor regulatory changes across Australia, the US, and the UK and update policies and procedures accordingly
We are looking for someone with:
Qualifications
- Australian citizen (required for access to controlled technology)
- 7+ years of hands-on export controls experience in aerospace, defence, or space
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with the DTCA, DSGL, and the MADE Portal, including Export Authorisation applications, DSGL classifications, and DEC engagement.
- Proven ability to build and run a compliance program, not just maintain an existing one
- Strong communicator able to translate complex regulatory requirements for non-compliance audiences
- Awareness of the AUKUS framework, including the licence-free environment and ITAR 126.7 exemption
- Comfortable operating with autonomy in a fast-moving, resource-constrained environment
- Relevant degree in Law, International Relations, Business, Engineering, or similar
Nice to Have
- ITAR experience, including licensing (DSP-5, TAA, MLA), USML classification, and compliance program management
- Background in space, satellite, or defence technology
- Experience building a compliance program from scratch in a high-growth company
- Experience serving as a Designated Compliance Officer or Lead with accountability for regulatory examinations and audits.
HEO’s Company Values:
We value good space citizenship. We are passionate about responsible space custodianship, sustainability and trust. We believe that space should be easy and transparent. Our values help us to tackle some of the most complex issues in space for the benefit of all of humanity.
As a team, we are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for employees from all backgrounds.
Perks, benefits & culture:
HEO is one of Australia’s fastest-growing space technology companies. At HEO, we’re committed to creating the best working environment where everyone thrives, values collaboration, encourages innovation and shares the common goal of making space transparent. Here’s some of the ways we achieve that goal:
- Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP). Own a piece of HEO!
- Convenient location in Sydney’s Tech Central with end of trip facilities (bicycle parking and showers)
- Flexible leave options so you can recharge and relax when best suits you – no forced leave during office shutdowns
- Paid parental leave for everyone
- A supportive environment that fosters cross-team collaboration. We learn by trial and celebrate our wins together
- Fireside chats every other Friday where we showcase what someone’s working on or something new in our industry, with some snacks and maybe a game of ping-pong or two
- Quarterly team events to share achievements we’re proud of (no matter how big or small) plus an annual event that brings together our team and customers
Our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
We make hiring decisions based on your experience, skills and passion, as well as how you can enhance HEO and our culture. Research shows that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single competency or experience. If you are excited about this role, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. You could be just the right person for this role and HEO. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application and throughout the interview process.
The successful candidate must be an Australian citizen and will be required to undergo a background check.
