Rothman joins KiwiStar with extensive experience spanning government, defence and commercial space organisations across the United States, New Zealand and international markets.
Most recently, she served as director of Launch Complex 1 at Rocket Lab in New Zealand, where she was responsible for leading operations at one of the world’s most active commercial launch sites.
Her career has also included senior technical and leadership roles with the United States Air Force, the Missile Defence Agency and the New Zealand Defence Force, where she contributed to major programs involving satellite systems, missile defence testing, space tracking capabilities and operational infrastructure.
Rothman also played a role in strengthening cooperation between United States, Australian and New Zealand space and defence interests, receiving both the Space and Missile Systems Center Civilian of the Year Award and the Missile Defence Agency Civilian of the Year Award for her contributions.
Speaking on her appointment, Rothman said she is excited to join KiwiStar Optics at a critical time for New Zealand’s growing space and defence technology ecosystem.
“KiwiStar has a strong reputation for innovation and technical excellence and I look forward to working with the team to continue developing sovereign capability, supporting customers and advancing technologies that deliver meaningful impact for New Zealand and our international partners,” Rothman said.
EOS Space Systems executive vice president Dr James Bennett said Rothman’s combination of technical expertise, leadership experience and understanding of complex defence and space programs made her well positioned to guide KiwiStar through its next phase of development.
“Julia’s depth of experience across defence, space systems and advanced technology development makes her exceptionally well placed to lead KiwiStar Optics through its next phase of growth,” Bennett said.
He said her background delivering complex programs, building high-performing teams and driving innovation across government and commercial environments would be a significant asset as KiwiStar expanded its capabilities and international presence.
The appointment comes as New Zealand’s space and defence technology sectors continue to grow, with increasing demand for sovereign capabilities in areas including space domain awareness, optical systems and advanced sensing technologies.
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