Head of Export Control & Compliance H/F

About Alta Ares

Alta Ares is a deeptech startup founded in 2024, building real-time AI for defense operations (ISR, C-UAS). Our primary clients are NATO-aligned militaries, with regular deployments during live exercises. Raised €2M pre‑seed in May 2025 Products include:

• Real-time AI ISR module deployable on drones and tactical platforms
• Counter-UAS solution enabling autonomous drone takeover under GNSS-denied environment
• Full-stack MLOps platform for training & deploying military-grade AI models
• Data fusion and trajectory prediction

Role & Mission

Export Control & Regulatory Compliance

• Build and manage Alta Ares' export control framework (France + EU as core scope)
• Classify products and technologies under military and dual-use regimes
• Lead export license applications and regulatory processes
• Ensure compliance with French regulations (DGA, SBDU) and EU Dual-Use Regulation
• Monitor regulatory developments impacting defense, AI, and autonomous systems

International Scope & Coordination

• Handle cross-border transfers, including cases involving US-origin technologies (ITAR/EAR exposure when relevant)
• Coordinate with external advisors when dealing with non-EU regulatory frameworks
• Anticipate regulatory constraints in international deployments and partnerships
• Support operations involving multiple jurisdictions (EU, UK, US, allied countries)

Business Enablement

• Partner with Sales and leadership to enable compliant deal execution
• Provide clear guidance on export constraints early in the sales cycle
• Support contract structuring (export clauses, usage restrictions, re-export considerations)
• Contribute to go/no-go decisions in sensitive markets

Risk & Sanctions Management

• Ensure compliance with EU and international sanctions regimes
• Conduct end-use and end-user due diligence
• Assess regulatory and geopolitical risks tied to new opportunities
• Implement pragmatic controls to mitigate compliance risks

Internal Program & Culture

• Develop policies, procedures, and training across teams
• Promote a strong compliance culture adapted to a fast-growing startup
• Ensure documentation, traceability, and audit readiness
• Balance rigor with operational efficiency

External Interface

• Interact with French authorities (DGA, SBDU) and external advisors
• Support participation in European and international defense programs
• Stay informed on evolving regulatory frameworks impacting the business

Requirements

Candidate Profile

• 5-10 years of experience in export control, trade compliance, or regulatory affairs
• Background in defense, aerospace, or dual-use industries
• Strong knowledge of French export control framework and EU Dual-Use Regulation
• Experience managing export licenses and regulatory interactions
• Exposure to international frameworks (UK, US including ITAR/EAR)

Skills & Qualities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to translate regulatory complexity into clear, actionable guidance
• Pragmatic, business-oriented mindset
• High integrity and attention to detail
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, international environment
• Strong communication across technical, legal, and commercial teams
• Fluent in French and English

Nice to Have

• Experience in a startup or high-growth environment
• Exposure to AI, drones, autonomous systems, or ISR technologies
• Experience interacting with French authorities (DGA, SBDU)
• Experience building or scaling a compliance program
• Familiarity with international export control frameworks (UK, US)
• Legal background or export control certifications