Irina Petrov is the VP of Marketing, Communications & Membership at GSOA, where she oversees the association’s global positioning and member engagement strategy. Retaining her role following the merger with GVF, she plays a central role in strengthening GSOA’s visibility, enhancing member value, and supporting the association’s strategic advocacy for the satellite communications sector. She has developed signature initiatives including the global rebranding initiative, digital outreach strategy, and the widely recognised Webinar Series, helping modernise the association’s narrative and expand its international presence.

Before joining the satellite industry associations, Irina spent two decades building expertise across the satellite and telecommunications sectors, spanning marketing, communications, public relations, business strategy, and international partnerships. She held senior roles with leading operators and service providers, including Avanti, Intelsat, PanAmSat, Europe*Star, and Onlime Group, where she led major campaigns, digital campaigns, and market expansion programmes.

Irina began her career as a journalist and editor in the satellite sector and previously served with the United Nations Military Observers as an interpreter and language assistant, where she was wounded in the line of duty – a formative experience that shaped her resilience and commitment to global service.