Head of Business Development - Defence/MOD in Cheshire, Warrington

Head of Business Development

Shape the future of Defence technology

Lead growth at a mission-driven company trusted by MOD and Defence to protect their secure communications

About the company

• This UK-based cyber security SME has been protecting UK infrastructure and Defence for decades.
• Their trusted tech enables safe communications across MOD, Government and critical sectors.
• With a new commercial structure and a respected leadership team, they’re poised for growth – and this hire is key.

About the role

• Lead business development strategy and activity across the Defence sector, particularly MOD and end-user communities
• Map, engage and influence future project opportunities – from early-stage qualification to conversion
• Own relationships with key stakeholders (1*, 2*, B1s) and build deep customer understanding to align value proposition
• Be a player-coach: leading the function while still personally driving critical engagement
• Represent the business at relevant Defence forums and input into market messaging and positioning

Your previous experience

• Deep understanding of Defence procurement and structure, particularly MOD and frontline commands
• Strong network with end users in Defence, not just primes – ideally including relationships at 1* and 2* levels
• Tenacious and emotionally intelligent – able to navigate complex stakeholder environments with tact and insight
• Likely in your second role post-service or with a successful track record in Defence business development already
• Comfortable working in a smaller, agile business with commercial awareness and a hands-on style

Package

• Base salary: £120k depending on experience
• Significant bonus/commission structure aligned with strategic growth
• Remote-first model with flexible arrangements
• Key travel area: M4 corridor, Bristol, Cheltenham
• Occasional visits to HQ (Central UK)

Arius Recruit is exclusively hiring for this role. We connect experienced sales professionals with senior commercial opportunities across the UK. We specialise in Sales, Account Management, Customer Success, and Executive-level hiring for high-growth technology sectors, including SaaS, CyberSecurity, AI, DeepTech, FinTech, RegTech, Data & Analytics and Consulting.

Arius Recruit Ltd is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. This is a permanent and full time position.