Head of Export Control & Compliance
Posted :
30/4/26
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
Position details
- Paris, France
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
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)
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
Skills & Values
- 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
What We Offer
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