Senior Director of Compensation, Sierra Space
$207-284k
Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position
Office located in Louisville, CO or Centennial, CO
Commercial space company
Open for applications
Commercial space company
1001+ employees
Open for applications
$207-284k
Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position
Office located in Louisville, CO or Centennial, CO
1001+ employees
Company mission
To build a platform in space to benefit life on Earth.
Role
Who you are
- The ideal candidate will bring exceptional leadership capabilities, a proven track record of driving organizational impact through compensation strategies, and experience in high-growth technology environments—preferably within aerospace, defense, or another high-tech industry.
- Having led compensation efforts through a major business transformation such as an IPO is highly preferred.
- This role also demands adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and the ability to thrive in Sierra Space’s fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., CCP, SPHR, or CEBS) highly preferred
- 15+ years of experience in compensation management, with at least 7 years in a leadership role, preferably at the senior director level or higher
- Proven expertise in executive compensation, broad-based compensation principles, and equity programs
- Experience leading compensation efforts through significant business transformation, such as an IPO, M&A, or other high-growth initiatives
- Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations
- Strong project management and organizational skills, with a focus on delivering scalable solutions
- Exceptional leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of building high-performing teams
- Advanced proficiency in HR technology and systems, with the ability to leverage AI and data analytics to optimize processes and decision-making
- Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization, including senior leadership and the Board of Directors
- Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
What the job involves
- The Senior Director of Compensation at Sierra Space will lead the design, implementation, and management of innovative, enterprise-wide compensation strategies and programs to attract, retain, and motivate top talent
- Reporting directly to the Chief People Officer, this role will operate as a strategic partner to senior leadership, providing forward-thinking guidance to ensure that compensation practices are competitive, equitable, and aligned with Sierra Space’s ambitious growth and transformation objectives
- As a senior leader, the Senior Director will drive the evolution of compensation practices by integrating cutting-edge methodologies, leveraging AI and analytics, and ensuring alignment with the company’s strategic vision
- This role requires a thought leader with deep expertise in executive compensation, broad-based compensation, equity programs, and the ability to navigate complex challenges with a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and employee engagement
- Strategic Leadership: Lead the development and execution of enterprise-wide compensation strategies, policies, and programs that align with Sierra Space's long-term goals and business priorities
- Market Competitiveness: Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to ensure Sierra Space remains competitive in attracting and retaining top talent. Provide data-driven recommendations for adjustments or enhancements
- Executive Compensation & Equity Programs: Oversee the design and administration of executive compensation plans, incentive structures, and equity programs, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and shareholder expectations
- Compliance & Governance: Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local compensation laws and regulations, while maintaining rigorous governance standards for compensation practices
- Collaboration with Leadership: Partner with senior leadership and HR teams to develop and maintain scalable salary structures, career progression frameworks, and job architecture models
- Advisory Role: Act as a trusted advisor to leaders and HR partners on complex compensation matters, including job evaluations, salary offers, promotions, and retention strategies
- Annual Compensation Cycle: Lead the annual compensation review process, including merit increases, bonus payouts, and equity grants, ensuring transparency and equity
- Trend Analysis & Innovation: Monitor and analyze market trends, emerging practices, and industry benchmarks to identify opportunities for innovation. Leverage AI and advanced analytics to drive efficiency and effectiveness in compensation processes
- Stakeholder Engagement: Prepare and present strategic compensation insights, reports, and recommendations to senior leadership and the Board of Directors
- Project & Change Management: Lead compensation-related projects and initiatives, including system implementations, process improvements, and organizational change efforts, ensuring alignment with business priorities
Our take
Sierra Space is developing the next generation of power and infrastructure for the evolving space economy. Over the last three decades, the company and its affiliates have produced more than 4,000 space systems, and achieved 500+ space missions, including to Mars.
The company was selected to build NASA's 3rd commercial cargo resupply spacecraft, to resupply the international space station. It is currently working with NASA to achieve this in 2024 through the reusable Dream Chaser vehicle. As well as this, the company is partnered with Blue Origin, Boeing and others to build a space station called “Orbital Reef".
Sierra Space is one of a growing number of commercial space station initiatives and has raised significant funding. Off the back of its 2023 capital raise, 2024 saw the release of the Sierra Space Eclipse bus line, which will be implemented in earth observation, servicing, mobility, logistics and communications. The variety of missions this new line can be used for exemplifies Sierra's position as an innovator in the rapidly evolving space industry.
Steph
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle
Insights
Company
Funding (last 2 of 3 rounds)
Sep 2023
$290m
SERIES B
Jul 2022
$24.5m
LATE VC
Total funding: $1.7bn
Company benefits
- Medical Coverage: We offer two comprehensive medical plans, a PPO and an HDHP, designed to prioritize the well-being of our team members
- Dental Coverage: HMO and PPO dental plans are aimed at promoting optimal oral health and reducing costs
- Vision Coverage: Our vision plan offers access to a wide range of in-network and out-of-network providers
- Flexible Spending Accounts: Maximize savings and use pre-tax dollars to pay for medical and dependent care expenses
- Health Savings Account: This tax-advantaged savings account allows team members to set aside pre-tax funds to cover qualified medical expenses
- Life and AD&D Insurance: Comprehensive Basic and Supplemental Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance offers financial protection to your family
- Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability insurance provides wage replacement should you suffer a disability that prevents you from working
- 401K Profit Sharing Plan: Employees may contribute 1% to 100% of base salary up to the annual IRS maximum. Employer match provided with a 5-year vesting schedule
- Employee Assistance Program: Confidential service available 24/7 that provides assessment, counseling, resources and referrals to employees
- Professional Development / Educational Reimbursement Plan: Reimbursement for undergraduate and graduate tuition, books and fees.
Company HQ
Louisville, Colorado
Leadership
Tom Vice
(CEO, not founder)Also founder and CEO of Vice Aero. Previously CEO and President at Aerion Supersonic, and President of Aerospace Systems at Northrop Grumman.
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