Head of Launch – Middle East

About the role

Quartermaster AI is seeking a Head of Launch for the Middle East to spearhead the company’s entry into one of the world’s most strategic maritime corridors. This senior position sits at the crossroads of diplomacy, regulatory navigation and operational strategy, driving the deployment of SmartMast™ units across the region.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain proactive relationships with national maritime authorities, port authorities and regional coordinating bodies.
• Anticipate regulatory shifts, trade restrictions and policy changes to develop risk‑mitigation strategies.
• Partner with Legal and Compliance to ensure launches meet local labor, customs, trade, spectrum, data‑handling and safety requirements.
• Develop scalable market‑entry playbooks tailored to the region’s commercial, cultural and regulatory environment.
• Establish import, customs and logistics frameworks, including warehousing and staging of SmartMast™ hardware.
• Identify, vet and onboard local installers, fabricators and port‑side vendors.
• Engage and convert commercial fleet operators, independent vessel owners and maritime organisations for SmartMast™ deployment.
• Negotiate and close partnership and space‑use agreements securing vessel capacity and long‑term relationships.
• Oversee transition from signed agreement to operational integration, ensuring partners meet quality and safety standards.
• Recruit, scale and mentor a local cross‑disciplinary team covering field operations, market support and stakeholder relations.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading market‑entry or launch initiatives in complex, regulated environments.
• Strong network within maritime authorities, port agencies and regional trade bodies.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate multi‑jurisdictional regulatory frameworks and develop risk‑mitigation plans.
• Excellent negotiation skills and a track record of securing strategic partnerships.
• Leadership experience building and managing cross‑functional teams.

Required skills