Neo Space Group (NSG), Saudi Arabia’s premier space industry champion, has named international telecom industry veteran Martijn Blanken as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
NSG seeks to unlock the space sector’s potential by providing advanced satellite communication services across different orbits. The organisation aims to foster innovation by investing in startups, partnering with leading space companies, and localising critical activities within Saudi Arabia. Their goal is to become a global leader in space, driving innovation and societal transformation.
As part of this strategy, the NSG Board of Directors appointed Martijn Blanken as CEO. Blanken brings more than 25 years of experience in telecommunications and technology. Previously, he served as CEO of EXA Infrastructure, a digital infrastructure platform connecting Europe and North America. He has also been a senior advisor to Squared Capital and held executive roles at Telstra Corporation, including Group Managing Director and Chief Commercial Officer.
Speaking about the new role, Blanken said: “It’s a true privilege to lead NSG. The space industry is rapidly transforming and is wide open for disruption, so the launch of NSG is very well-timed. We believe that by putting the customer’s need at the centre of everything we do, leveraging existing assets in the industry in combination with investments in new capabilities, we will be able to become an effective disrupter and challenger brand in the global space economy and a national champion for Saudi’s space ambitions.”
NSG, a wholly-owned PIF company, is committed to pursuing strategic and commercially viable opportunities in the space sector. It aims to invest in promising new space technology startups and entrepreneurs, both domestically and globally, to nurture a thriving space industry. Aligned with Vision 2030, NSG will contribute to diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy, creating jobs, and driving national transformation.
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