CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 9 Science-Backed Consultancy and Development Services Because navigating the fourth industrial revolution that we are currently in the midst of is no easy feat, Astraterra is there to hold the hands of its smart city and ‘new space’ clients, helping them to cement their leading positions in environments fraught with everything from new regulations and technological disruptions to global paradigm shifts. Heading up this operation is Dr. Mireille Elhajj, who established the business in 2016 and has not looked back since, ultimately leading to her being championed as the Smart Cities CEO of the Year 2024 – UK. A multifaceted consultancy operating out of the UK, Astraterra and its industryleading team of experts deliver comprehensive support services for discerning companies that recognise the necessity of innovation in today’s space and technology markets. Utilising cutting-edge scientific and analytical tools, this business excels across a range of complex projects for a whole host of operations. Whether they operate regionally or internationally, this strategic consulting firm delivers measurable value to all of its clients. CEO, Dr. Mireille Elhajj commented: “Astraterra’s mission is to create a difference in the world socially and environmentally by harnessing the latest technologies. Whether be it taking part in projects, or supporting new social and governmental initiatives, Astraterra is for societal resilience. By staying ahead of technological disruptions, global paradigm shifts, and regulatory changes, we foster innovation in open markets worldwide.” From help navigating market shifts to making strategic choices reflective of a wider corporate strategy, Astraterra prides itself on an ability to ensure that all client businesses are aligned around common goals and operate atop an internal culture comprising diversity, security, and resilience. Because ongoing training is also vital, the company delivers extensive educational programmes that go beyond standard academia to cover everything from smart city application to positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) for space projects. It is Astraterra’s pioneering work concerning the resilience and sustainability of smart cities through the application of Earth observation and PNT models, that has particularly caught our eye, with some of its recent projects in this area including the creation of a robust parametric platform for planning and designing sustainable smart cities, a research paper on of a GNSS signal interference detection method that uses fractional Fourier transform for GNSS receivers, and the construction of a modelling/design platform in conjunction with D.G. Cities and Imperial College London. These projects have all been made possible by Mireille Elhajj, Astraterra’s CEO and a multitalented individual whose expertise spans everything from space and transport to mobility and infrastructure. Boasting a stellar educational background, Mireille studied transportation and Intelligence Systems at Imperial College London up to PhD level, before returning to the school and serving in a variety of lecturing roles. Mireille remains a Visiting Associate Professor to this day, as well as being a valued member of the institution’s Industrial Advisory Board and a member of the International Astronautical Federation Administrative Committee on Connecting Emerging Space Ecosystems for Europe sub-committee, where she advocates for women in Space. Having previously directed an iteration of Imperial College London’s Integrated Space Science Programme (ISSP), it is clear that Mireille’s knowledge of her specialist subject runs deep, something corroborated by her participation in events run by the likes of The Saudi Space Commission and her fellowship at the Royal Institute of Navigation. Before entering into the smart city/new space sector, Mireille even worked as a banker in London’s leading banks, as well as a financial consultant for speciality funds and family offices. With this far-reaching expertise in tow, it is no surprise that Mireille’s approach is grounded in science and underpinned by intuition and a commitment to deliver a fully tailored service for every organisation that her firm partners with. Mireille told us: “As a CEO, the challenges I face, such as high-pressure decision-making, balancing short-term needs with long-term vision, managing stakeholder expectations, resource allocation, and maintaining innovation amidst rapid technological changes, have become valuable opportunities for growth.” Her past has helped her to embrace upcoming challenges. She continued: “These experiences have strengthened my strategic planning, communication, adaptability, and decision-making skills, helping me to lead with confidence and clarity.” Astraterra’s Mireille Elhajj is not only a remarkable CEO, she is also a catalyst, an advisor, and an innovator with her sights set on creating a better world for everyone. Mixing her renowned expertise with a mindset revolving around inclusion, equity, and sustainability, this is a person for whom the title of Smart Cities CEO of the Year 2024 – UK only just scratches the surface – making Mireille both a highlight of this programme and a standout figure in her dynamic industry. Contact: Mireille Elhajj Company: Astraterra Web Address: https://astra-terra.com/ Dec24087
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