DigitalGlobe has hired Scott Smith as the company’s new chief operating officer. Smith brings over 24 years of experience in the aerospace and commercial remote sensing industries with a background in spacecraft and ground systems design, commercial and military space systems development, and commercial space business management.

Prior top joining DigitalGlobe, Smith served as executive vice president at Space Imaging, where he was responsible for all sales, operations and engineering functions for the company. Smith joined the company in 1995 as its space segment director. Smith also previously held various engineering and management positions for Lockheed Missiles & Space Company.

As DigitalGlobe’s new COO, Smith will plan and direct all aspects of DigitalGlobe’s operational policies, objectives and initiatives. He will oversee and help to prepare DigitalGlobe’s corporate business processes and systems for the launch and operation of DigitalGlobe’s constellation of satellites, and the significant growth of the business.

“Scott embodies the skills, experience and vision needed to lead DigitalGlobe’s operations, and to position the company for continued growth and success in the commercial and defense and intelligence markets,” said Jill Smith, president and CEO of DigitalGlobe.

“In particular, Scott’s long history working in the commercial satellite imaging industry will be of great value to DigitalGlobe as we prepare to launch the next generation WorldView system. We are proud to have Scott on board.”