UK orbital launch services company Orbex, which also focuses on 3D printing technology, has announced the appointment of a new CEO and Executive Chair.
Chambers, an expert in scaling technology businesses, has more than two decades of experience in developing innovative companies. He has been involved as an investor in Orbex and brings his expertise from successful start-ups such as Gumtree and Peakon. Belló Mora, previously Director General of the Spanish Space Agency and head of the PERTE program for the Spanish aerospace sector, complements the management team with extensive industry experience.
These strategic appointments come at a time when the UK is developing satellite orbital transportation capabilities for the first time. Together, Chambers and Belló Mora will lead Orbex to the forefront of European rocket launches. With six commercial satellite launch contracts and the development of one of the most environmentally friendly orbital rockets in the world, Orbex is positioning itself as a leading player in the sector.
As CEO, Chambers will lead Orbex’s next phase of growth, including the completion of the Sutherland Spaceport, the world’s first carbon-neutral spaceport under construction and operation. Belló Mora, as Executive Chair, will bring key industry expertise to support Orbex’s ambitious strategy.
Phillip Chambers, CEO of Orbex, said: “It’s a hugely exciting time to be joining Orbex and the global space industry as we look ahead to a significant period of growth for the business. As we progress towards the completion of the Sutherland Spaceport and our continuing work towards our first launch, we’re about to embark on an incredible journey. Orbex’s work is pivotal in making the UK a hub for European orbital launch, and after having already invested in the vision, I’m looking forward to focusing all my energy on driving Orbex towards the next phase of growth.”
Miguel Belló Mora, Executive Chair of the Orbex Board, added: “I’ve never experienced a more exciting time during my 40 years in the space industry. Orbex’s ambition to continually drive the industry forward in both technology and green innovation, is unique for the business, and I am pleased to be able to help shape this. To be joining at the same time as Phil is an added bonus, and I look forward to working closely together during what is shaping up to be a crucial few years for Orbex.”
Orbex is currently developing Prime, a 19-meter-long, two-stage rocket for launching small satellites into low Earth orbit. By using renewable biofuel, Prime significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to similarly sized rockets. The construction of Sutherland Spaceport on the north coast of Scotland, Orbex’s future main launch site, confirms the company’s commitment to achieving up to 12 rocket launches per year for satellite deployment.
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