Senior Director of Defense & Space Affairs

Greater Brownsville EDC (GBEDC)
Location: Brownsville, Texas
Reports To: Executive Vice President

 

Position Overview

The Senior Director of Defense & Space Affairs is the strategic leader responsible for advancing Brownsville’s position as a premier hub for commercial spaceflight, aerospace manufacturing, and defense innovation. This role drives the growth of the regional aerospace cluster, strengthens high‑level partnerships, and ensures the Greater Brownsville region remains a critical gateway to the global space economy.

Serving as GBEDC’s primary liaison to the Texas Space Commission and other state and federal agencies as warranted, the Senior Director leads interagency coordination, secures competitive funding, and shapes policy initiatives that support long‑term aerospace expansion. As a key member of GBEDC’s Business Recruitment team, this executive also leads aerospace and defense recruitment and expansion efforts, ensuring the region attracts high‑value employers and investment.

 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Government & Agency Relations

  • Serve as the lead point of contact to the Texas Space Commission and other relevant state and federal agencies.
  • Secure grants, incentives, and strategic designations that strengthen the region’s aerospace and defense competitiveness.
  • Represent GBEDC in high‑level briefings, legislative discussions, and interagency working groups.

Aerospace & Defense Cluster Development

  • Lead recruitment and expansion efforts for aerospace companies, satellite manufacturers, defense contractors, and research institutions as a core member of the Business Recruitment team.
  • Build and manage a robust pipeline of qualified prospects aligned with regional economic development priorities.
  • Drive capital investment, job creation, and supply‑chain growth within the aerospace and defense sectors.

SpaceX & Starbase Integration

  • Facilitate collaboration between SpaceX/Starbase, the Port of Brownsville, and regional industrial partners to strengthen supply‑chain connectivity.
  • Identify operational needs, infrastructure gaps, and partnership opportunities that support SpaceX’s long‑term presence.
  • Advance initiatives that enhance the region’s aerospace‑ready industrial capacity.

Legislative & Policy Advocacy

  • Monitor state and federal aerospace policy and identify opportunities to advance Brownsville’s strategic interests.
  • Advocate for funding, legislation, and programs that elevate the region’s role in the Texas space economy.
  • Position Brownsville as a key participant in statewide initiatives such as the Texas Space Grant Consortium.

Workforce & Academic Partnerships

  • Collaborate with UTRGV, technical colleges, and training providers to align curricula with aerospace industry needs.
  • Support the development of specialized “Space City” workforce pathways, apprenticeships, and research partnerships.
  • Engage employers in talent pipeline development and program design.

Infrastructure & Project Leadership

  • Oversee aerospace‑related infrastructure initiatives within the Tech Industrial Park and surrounding areas.
  • Coordinate with engineering, planning, and development teams to ensure timely delivery of strategic projects.
  • Advance site‑readiness efforts to attract aerospace and defense investment.
 

Core Competencies & Qualifications

State Relations & Economic Development

  • Strong understanding of Texas economic development tools, including incentive programs and state funding mechanisms.
  • Proven ability to navigate agency processes, legislative environments, and public‑sector partnerships.

Aerospace & Defense Expertise

  • Knowledge of commercial spaceflight operations, satellite manufacturing, aerospace supply chains, and defense industry dynamics.
  • Experience collaborating with major aerospace firms or defense contractors is highly preferred.

Project & Program Management

  • Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi‑stakeholder infrastructure or development projects.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and execution skills.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  • Exceptional relationship‑building skills with executives, elected officials, academic leaders, and community partners.
  • Ability to lead cross‑sector initiatives and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
 

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, engineering, business, or related field preferred.
  • 3-5+ years of experience in economic development, aerospace/defense, government affairs, or related fields.
  • Experience working with state agencies, legislative bodies, or large‑scale industrial projects is highly desirable.

 

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to jbriones@greaterbrownsville.com