Welcome to Planet. We believe in using space to help life on Earth.

Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. This constellation delivers an unprecedented dataset of empirical information via a revolutionary cloud-based platform to authoritative figures in commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. We are both a space company and data company all rolled into one.

Customers and users across the globe use Planet's data to develop new technologies, drive revenue, power research, and solve our world’s toughest obstacles.

As we control every component of hardware design, manufacturing, data processing, and software engineering, our office is a truly inspiring mix of experts from a variety of domains.

We have a people-centric approach toward culture and community and we strive to iterate in a way that puts our team members first and prepares our company for growth. Join Planet and be a part of our mission to change the way people see the world.

Planet is headquartered in San Francisco, California, Earth.

About the Role:  

As the Market Development Director, Africa, you will be responsible for defining, coordinating and leading Planet’s strategy and roadmap for growth across diverse countries and markets in Africa. After defining geographic and market focus areas, this leader will work to identify opportunities to increase awareness of Planet solutions and work cross functionally with marketing, channel, and sales to develop new partnerships and reach new customers. You will be responsible for building relationships with senior executives and leaders in the remote sensing community, both public and private sector, and defining how Planet can work with regional and international partners to accelerate growth. As market development lead in this territory, you will work with sales leaders and engineers to close new opportunities and build a portfolio of new business in the region. This job has elements of strategy, relationship development, business development, and execution.

What You Bring:

• Relevant senior business development experience related to new technology adoption in Africa
• Experience developing partnerships and navigating complex organizations to build champions and influencers in new markets 
• Knowledge, openness and understanding to work with and across diverse cultures throughout African continent and with international Planet team and community
• Bachelor’s Degree required, MBA or other advanced degree highly preferred
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills and business judgement 
• Excellent executive communication and organizational skills
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environment and tackle new challenges from start to finish

Benefits While Working at Planet:

• Global

  • Be part of a vibrant international company of 45+ nationalities with office locations in different countries
  • Sense of belonging in a diverse and inclusive culture
  • Experience a fast-paced spacetech environment
  • Countless opportunities to connect within and outside of work with regular team events  
  • Personal development with annual L&D budget
  • Join our regular hack-weeks and meetup events to exchange knowledge
  • Employee Resource Groups that provide safe and empowering spaces for connection and mentorship
  • Give back to the community by using one day per quarter for charitable work as part of our 1% Pledge
  • Health programs and flexible working hours to support work life balance
  • Daily virtual mindful bodywork sessions to stay healthy
  • We offer equipment and wellbeing support during these challenging times 

Some Press About Us: 

Our CEO, Will Marshall featured on TED and featured in a Planet Blog

“Planet: Bringing Space Back Down to Earth”

Tiny, privately owned satellites are changing how we view the Earth features in NBC News

“Planet And Rocket Lab Create Mission Patch To Honor Women In Aerospace” —Planet Blog

Why we care so much about Belonging. 

We’re dedicated to helping the whole Planet, and to do that we must strive to represent all of it within each of our offices and on all of our teams. That’s why Planet is guided by an ultimate  north star of Belonging, dreaming big as we approach our ongoing work with diversity, equity and inclusion.  If this job intrigues you, but you’re thinking you might not have all the qualifications, please... do apply!  At Planet, we are looking for well-rounded people from around the world who can contribute to more ways than just what is listed in this job description.  We don’t just fill positions, we aspire to fulfill people’s careers, most excited about folks who are motivated by our underlying humanitarian efforts.  We are a few orbits around the sun before we get to where we want to be, so we hope you’re excited to come along for the ride. 

EEO statement:

Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. Planet is an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. 

Accommodations:

Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the interview process, please call Planet's front office at 669-214-9404 or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.