SESAR Solution Lead and SESAR Communications Lead

SESAR Solution Lead and SESAR Communications Lead

Closing date - Sunday 23rd August 2026

NATS is the UK’s leading air navigation service provider, handling over 2.4 million flights each year. We provide air traffic control services from two control centres and at airports around the UK. We also provide a wide range of commercial products and solutions internationally. Our people are at the heart of our purpose to advance aviation and keep the skies safe.

Context

The SESAR Joint Undertaking (SJU) is a PPP consortium established to undertake collaborative Research & Development of ATM concepts and systems in support of the Single European Sky initiative and NATS is a key contributor to the programme. The SESAR 3 programme started in 2022 and runs until 2031, with a budget of 1.6 billion euros. NATS is involved in a number of funded projects, and currently has awarded work in the programme to the value of 18 million euros and receives up to 70% funding (either through Horizon Europe or through the UK government).

The output of SESAR 3 will lead to the definition of future European common projects leading to mandates that NATS may be required to adhere to if adopted by the UK.

The role sits within the SESAR Team within Operations Concepts. The purpose of the role is to act as the NATS Lead for a number of SESAR 3 projects and Transformation & Strategy and Development (TSD) SESAR Communications Focal point coordinating with Corporate Comms. As such the post holder is responsible for leading and developing the relevant work, and supporting the overall communication activities of the SESAR programme.

In addition to working within specific projects, the role interacts with other SESAR projects, including input to the transversal projects and working to influence the overall concept.

The role involves influencing effectively the strategic direction for future ATM systems development e.g. through SESAR forums, and communicating effectively with stakeholders from across NATS to coordinate NATS’ views and pro-actively pursue the agreed positions externally. An important aspect of the role is being able to work collaboratively with European partners, with appropriate understanding of their interests and background culture.

The role provides proactive support to the management of the overall programme of SESAR work conducted by NATS.

Note that the specific responsibilities of the SESAR Solution Lead and SESAR Communications Focal point role are defined in the SJU SESAR Project Handbook and the EU Horizon Europe grants.

Breadth of Experience

The role requires an in-depth understanding of current European ATM research and the ATM future concept developed by SESAR. A broader knowledge of NATS’ ATM operations, NATS’ organisation and processes is required.

Scope for Impact

As NATS lead for a project(S) and a recognised NATS expert in SESAR, the job-holder provides technical advice and strategic direction for tasks that could have a significant impact on shaping the future of UK and European ATM.

The role is the lead from within the SESAR team for internal and external communications relating to SESAR, liaising with Corporate Comms.

Supervision and Leadership:
Leads a team made up from technical experts from across European partner organisations and within NATS, ensuring team members understand objectives and the context within which they are set. Ensures that the team members are kept informed of progress and wider developments. The role is responsible for supervising inputs from these individuals, allocating certain activities as necessary and providing advice and assistance as required.

Project Management (inc Planning):
Supports Project Coordinators (in the organisation leading the project on behalf of the consortium) in managing, planning, designing, implementing, monitoring and reporting on activities relating to the NATS contribution and to meet the external management requirements of the SESAR JU. Is jointly responsible for developing, agreeing and guiding the execution of work plans together with European partner organisations. Identifies and resolves complexities and…