John-Paul Hemingway.

SES is eliminating the role of SES Networks CEO and moving John-Paul Hemingway to the newly created role of chief strategy and product officer, the satellite operator announced Tuesday. 

SES described the new role as “translating corporate vision into strategic action for the company’s networks and video markets.” This includes target applications, strategic partnerships, portfolio of solutions, and space and network assets. This role brings together Corporate Strategy, Product, Commercial Operations, Fleet Development, Innovation and Marketing & Communications teams. 

Hemingway had served as SES Networks CEO since April 2018 and has been with the company since SES acquired O3b Networks, where he was chief marketing officer. SES Networks business has grown to be a more important part of the company in recent years. In 2017, Networks made up 32% of group revenue, and by 2020 that increased to 41%. In 2020, SES considered splitting the Networks business off, but decided against it. 

SES said with this change, “The resulting organization is flatter, leaner and more customer oriented, with sales reporting directly to the CEO of SES.”

“2022 is a pivotal year for SES as we launch the infrastructure that will grow and develop our business for the next decade. JP at the helm of our growth strategy and as a partner to our sales teams will be an integral part of our success,” said CEO Steve Collar.