# Head of Export Control & Compliance H/F

**Company:** [Alta Ares](http://jobs.workable.com/companies/dTjqj5nvsJLNhfSDY12XbG.md)
**Location:** Paris, France
**Workplace:** on site
**Employment type:** Full-time
**Department:** Business & Operations

[Apply for this job](http://jobs.workable.com/view/f31c37ea-d4d0-4cfc-82e7-155d8aa7ba02)

## Description

### 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