Strategic Operations Manager (Expansion Strategy)

AST SpaceMobile•Dallas, TX

About The Position

AST SpaceMobile is building SpaceMobile, a space-based cellular broadband network designed to provide 4G/5G connectivity to standard smartphones around the world. The Strategic Operations Manager will lead facility expansion and site development initiatives supporting the company's growth. The role plans, delivers, and operationalizes new facilities, manufacturing expansions, test environments, and strategic infrastructure projects from concept through occupancy and operational readiness. The position combines facilities development, project management, real estate, and operational planning, with responsibility for coordinating cross-functional teams and owning projects end to end. It also leads the use of AI-enabled tools and automation to improve site selection, project execution, reporting, and operational efficiency. The role involves frequent travel of approximately 30–40% to operational sites, construction projects, and partner locations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
At least 7 years of experience in facilities planning, real estate development, construction management, strategic operations, capital projects, or related disciplines.
Experience managing multiple complex projects simultaneously from planning through completion.
Experience supporting facility expansion, operational readiness, infrastructure development, or construction programs.
Experience managing external vendors, contractors, consultants, and development partners.
Hands-on experience using AI tools, automation platforms, or advanced analytics solutions in project management or operational environments.
Strong ownership mentality and end-to-end accountability.
Excellent organizational, project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with executives, government agencies, contractors, and cross-functional teams.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to execution excellence.
Ability to manage competing priorities and complex stakeholder environments.
Adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and process improvements.
Calm and effective decision-making under pressure.
Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.
Ability to review construction drawings, facility plans, contracts, budgets, and project documentation.
Ability to walk construction sites, undeveloped property, industrial facilities, and uneven outdoor terrain; work outdoors in varying weather; and wear required personal protective equipment.
Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.

Nice To Haves

PMP, CAPM, or similar project management certification.
Aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, or other industrial facility development experience.
Experience supporting test facilities, manufacturing campuses, mission-critical infrastructure, or specialized operational environments.
Experience working with government agencies, economic development organizations, or public-private partnerships.
Experience with site selection, land acquisition, lease negotiations, and facility transactions.
Experience using AI-driven solutions for project management, operational planning, scheduling, or reporting.
Experience securing economic development incentives, grants, tax abatements, or similar programs.
Knowledge of zoning, permitting, environmental compliance, and construction regulations.
Experience managing capital projects with budgets exceeding $10 million.
Experience supporting rapidly growing organizations undergoing expansion and scaling initiatives.

Responsibilities

Lead planning and execution of facility expansion projects, including manufacturing sites, engineering facilities, test environments, and operational infrastructure.
Manage site selection, including location analysis, due diligence, feasibility assessments, and recommendations.
Lead land acquisition, lease negotiations, property transactions, and facility development.
Coordinate permitting, zoning, environmental reviews, regulatory approvals, and compliance requirements.
Manage facility design, construction, renovation, and occupancy projects from initial requirements through completion.
Develop and maintain integrated project schedules aligned with company growth plans, operational milestones, and production objectives.
Coordinate with architects, engineering firms, contractors, consultants, brokers, utilities, and government agencies.
Lead AI-enabled initiatives for site analysis, project tracking, document review, reporting, and operational efficiency.
Manage cross-functional readiness activities involving Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, Environmental Health & Safety, Information Technology, and Human Resources.
Conduct operational readiness reviews to ensure facilities, personnel, systems, equipment, and processes are prepared for launch.
Develop and manage facility budgets, capital expenditure plans, forecasts, and project spending.
Monitor project performance, risks, and schedule impacts, and drive mitigation actions and recovery plans.
Coordinate infrastructure requirements, including utilities, power, security, technology, environmental, and safety requirements.
Prepare executive presentations, business cases, project updates, and decision-support materials for leadership.