Introducing Space South Central’s new International Partnerships Manager
With international collaborations a key focus for the government’s National Space Strategy, they’re also a key focus for us. Our new web page explains how we can help space-related businesses and organisations from around the world connect with expertise in Hampshire, Surrey and the Isle of Wight - including our UK Space: In One Place video and brochure.
And we now have an International Partnerships Manager, Tobias Marchant, on the team to help forge those connections. Although based at the University of Surrey, one of the cluster’s founding partners, Toby’s role will take him all over the region and beyond - he already has his first international visit lined up to support the Space South Central collaboration with Singapore, which recently won UK Space Agency funding. Here’s a little bit more about him.
What attracted you to the role, and what are you looking forward to about it?
I’ve been working in recruitment for the past 15 years and in the space sector for the last two. I saw this position and felt that it would be an amazing opportunity to help the growth and development of the space industry in Hampshire, Surrey and the Isle of Wight.
There is so much exciting collaboration within the space industry and so much going on with the cluster that I am looking forward to championing and being involved in international projects, and working with local businesses and academics.
Where are you joining us from?
Before joining Space South Central, I worked for Serco Space Services (formerly Sapienza Space Services), as a Talent Acquisition Manager helping governing bodies such as ESA, EUMETSAT, CNES and private clients to find experienced space professionals, from engineers to facilities managers and administrators.
Were you already based in the Space South Central region, or have you relocated from elsewhere?
I'm based in the New Forest, just outside Southampton, perfectly positioned within the cluster to travel along the M27 to Portsmouth and the M3 to Guildford. (As well as 20 mins from Southampton Airport; 1hr 45 to Gatwick; 35 mins to Bournemouth Airport)
What are your hobbies/interests outside work?
I have two kids, so as you can imagine, they take up most of my time! I’m a fan of American Football and used to play prior to Covid - I was a cornerback for the Solent Thrashers and Team Secretary. I like music, I play the Ukulele and spend far too much money on records! I also enjoy the cinema, but like to spend most of my available time with the children. I am now slightly concerned that I'm boring and need to get more hobbies!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I did an astronomy GCSE and visited Patrick Moore at his house, Farthings in Selsey.
If you’re a Space South Central company looking to explore international projects, or from an organisation outside the UK interested in the space expertise the region has to offer, contact Toby at t.marchant@surrey.ac.uk.
The UK's Space South Central region of Hampshire, Surrey and the Isle of Wight is a small area with a big impact on the space industry - nationally and globally.
