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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business growth in the defence sector by securing new partnerships and opportunities.
- Company: Join Surface Technology International, a trusted leader in defence electronics manufacturing with over 30 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team making a real impact in mission-critical manufacturing for defence and aerospace.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development within defence or aerospace, with strong communication and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Travel across the UK may be necessary to engage with key clients and stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
- Be part of a company at the forefront of defence electronics manufacturing
- Work in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment with a passionate team
About Our Client
Surface Technology International (STI) is a leading provider of electronics design and manufacturing services, specialising in high-reliability applications for the defence, aerospace and security sectors. With a heritage of over 30 years, STI is trusted by global customers to deliver quality, innovation, and excellence. Their capabilities span the entire product lifecycle – from design and prototyping to full-scale production and logistics – making them a true partner in mission-critical manufacturing.
Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Business Development Manager to spearhead growth in the defence sector, with a particular focus on engaging and expanding partnerships with major prime contractors. This is a strategic role, integral to STI\’s vision of becoming a key partner in the UK and international defence supply chain.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify, engage, and secure new business opportunities within the defence sector, particularly with Tier 1 defence primes and key integrators.
- Develop and execute a targeted business development strategy to support STI\’s growth objectives in defence.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with procurement, engineering, and program teams at target accounts.
- Drive early engagement on new programs, positioning STI as a trusted manufacturing partner from concept through to production.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders including engineering, operations, and program management to ensure alignment with customer needs.
- Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and government defence initiatives to identify emerging opportunities.
- Represent STI at trade shows, industry forums, and customer events to build brand presence and credibility.
- Lead bid and proposal development in coordination with the commercial and technical teams.
The Successful Applicant
The Business Development Manager will have:-
- Proven track record of business development or strategic account management in the defence or aerospace sector.
- Experience working with or for prime contractors (e.g., BAE Systems, Leonardo, Thales, MBDA, Raytheon, etc.)
- Strong understanding of defence procurement processes, industry compliance, and program lifecycles.
- Background in electronics manufacturing, systems integration, or advanced engineering services is highly desirable.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Commercially astute with a strong customer-first mindset and solution-oriented approach.
- Ability to travel across the UK as required.
What\’s on Offer
On offer is a competitive base salary and package as well as a fantastic platform to grow and develop your career further!
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Business Development Manager employer: Michael Page UK
Contact Detail:
Michael Page UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the defence sector, especially those connected to major prime contractors. Attend industry events and forums where you can meet potential contacts and learn more about the current trends and needs in the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Surface Technology International (STI) thoroughly. Understand their products, services, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in becoming a part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with business development in the defence or aerospace sectors. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with Tier 1 contractors and contributed to growth in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on government defence initiatives and market trends. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments will not only impress during discussions but also help you identify new opportunities for STI in the defence supply chain.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in business development, particularly within the defence or aerospace sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in securing new business opportunities and managing strategic accounts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to Surface Technology International. Emphasise your understanding of the defence procurement processes and how your background aligns with their needs. Be sure to mention any experience with prime contractors.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, highlight key skills such as communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement. Provide examples of how you've successfully built relationships and driven business growth in previous roles.
Research the Company: Familiarise yourself with Surface Technology International's mission, values, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest in becoming part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page UK
✨Research the Company and Industry
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research Surface Technology International and the defence electronics sector. Understand their products, services, and recent developments. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and align your answers with their goals.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in business development or strategic account management, especially within the defence or aerospace sectors. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've successfully engaged with prime contractors and secured new business opportunities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Business Development Manager, strong communication skills are essential. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to discuss how you've built and maintained relationships with stakeholders in past roles, as this will be crucial for success at STI.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having insightful questions prepared shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their current projects, future growth plans, or how they measure success in the business development team.
