Arianespace appoints Steven Rutgers as Chief Commercial Officer

Edinburgh, 17 January, 2023. – Arianespace has appointed Steven Rutgers as Chief Commercial Officer as of 16th January, 2023. Rutgers reports to Stéphane Israël, Chief Executive Officer of Arianespace, and joins the company’s Executive Committee, Arianespace said.

Rutgers’ experience in the space industry spans over two decades, working initially as the international market and account manager with Inmarsat distributor Xantic. Following that, he worked in Hong Kong, Dubai and Singapore with Stratos and Inmarsat, negotiating complex bids and supporting commercial development. He has conducted business with satellite operators and the government, telecommunications, oil and gas, mining, logistics and fishing industries as well.

Most recently, Rutgers was the Vice President of Sales with IoT (Internet of Things) company Hiber, negotiating deals int the satellite industry. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the International School of Economics and Management, Rotterdam.

Rutgers succeeds Emmanuel Franc, who has chosen to leave the company.