Arfan has 30+ years’ experience of central government in the Space, Defence and Security Sectors, with a focus on policy development at the strategic level, building effective relationships and partnerships whilst drawing on well-developed communication and influencing skills at Ministerial and Board level.
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Arfan has held a number of operational and policy roles, including at UK’s Ministry of Defence and Department for International Trade, where he was responsible for delivering the strategy of industry engagement to ensure focused UK Government support for defence and security exports.
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He has also held several key roles at the UK Space Agency and Space Directorate, including Head of International Policy & Strategy and as International Director - where he was responsible for developing the Agency’s policy for international interventions which sought to maximise benefits in trade, security and science. He also led UK’s delegation to the European Space Agency and as Deputy Director International Strategy and Regulation he led on security and resilience of the UK's infrastructure and space applications.
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On joining the Saudi Space Agency as VP Partnerships, he led the development, build-up and operation of Saudi Arabia’s Space program in line with the National Space Strategy and the Saudi Vision 2030.
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Since leaving SSA in Mar 25, Arfan has pursued an international portfolio career as a Board Advisor, Non-Exec Director, Trustee and Mentor.