At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive business growth in the defence sector by identifying new opportunities and building strong customer relationships.
- Company: Join a world-leading manufacturer in the exciting defence industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape your career.
- Other info: Flexible UK-based role with international travel and excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team making a real impact in defence solutions.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in business development, preferably in defence or manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
My client, a world leading manufacturer who operates mainly within the defence sector, is seeking a business development manager to join their team. This is a fantastic opportunity to join the business at an exciting time of growth, allowing you some real scope for development in the role. You will have 3-5 years’ experience working in business development within the defence sector, ideally in a manufacturing environment. Experience operating within Land systems, armoured vehicles, tactical platforms, or related environments would be hugely beneficial. My client will also consider former service people (NCO, junior officers etc) who have knowledge of defence procurement. This role can be based anywhere in the UK; however, you will be required to be in the office in the North East during the onboarding process. This role will also require UK and international travel 10-15% of the time.
Duties and responsibilities:
- Identify and qualify new Land platform, vehicle, and systems integration opportunities globally.
- Develop early engagement strategies with OEMs, system integrators, primes, and MOD customers.
- Build and maintain a robust Land sales pipeline aligned to strategic growth objectives.
- Shape customer requirements where possible to align with business capabilities.
- Lead bid/no-bid assessments and initiate capture plans for strategic pursuits.
- Secure contracts.
- Grow revenue within established Land accounts through cross‑selling and up‑selling COTS, MOTS, and bespoke solutions.
- Maintain structured account development plans for key customers.
- Monitor programme lifecycles to identify upgrade, retrofit, and sustainment opportunities.
- Strengthen relationships across the buying committee within customer organisations.
- Develop pricing strategies in collaboration with Finance and Commercial teams.
- Support negotiation of commercial terms in alignment with internal governance.
- Ensure awareness of procurement regulations and contractual obligations relevant to Land programmes.
- Work closely with the Contracts & Compliance Manager to ensure regulatory alignment.
- Lead early‑stage capture planning and win strategy development.
- Provide customer insight and commercial positioning to the Bid & Proposals Manager.
- Support key customer presentations, clarifications, and negotiation meetings.
- Maintain awareness of global Land Defence trends, procurement cycles, and competitor positioning.
- Contribute to Defence growth strategy and long‑range opportunity planning.
- Represent the business at relevant trade exhibitions and industry forums.
Business Development Manager - Defence in North East employer: Bidrecruitment
Join a world-leading manufacturer in the defence sector as a Business Development Manager, where you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With opportunities for international travel and a focus on strategic growth, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact while collaborating with industry experts in the North East of the UK. The company fosters a culture of innovation and teamwork, ensuring that every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute to the success of the organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager - Defence in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, trade shows, and forums to meet potential employers and learn about new opportunities. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or recruiters, make sure to highlight your experience in business development within the defence sector. Share specific examples of how you've successfully identified and secured contracts.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you’re interested in, even if they’re not advertising positions. A well-timed email can put you on their radar for future opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website! We’ve got loads of resources and job listings tailored for the defence sector. Apply through us to streamline your application process and increase your chances of landing that Business Development Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager - Defence in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Business Development Manager in the defence sector. Highlight your experience in business development, especially within manufacturing and any relevant knowledge of Land systems or armoured vehicles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully identified and qualified new opportunities in the past, and how you can contribute to our growth strategy.
Showcase Your Network:If you have connections within the defence sector, don’t hesitate to mention them! Building relationships is key in this role, so let us know how you’ve successfully engaged with OEMs, system integrators, or MOD customers in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it, ensuring you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bidrecruitment
✨Know Your Defence Sector Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and developments in the defence sector, especially around Land systems and armoured vehicles. Being able to discuss current events or recent contracts will show your passion and knowledge, which is crucial for a Business Development Manager.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your business development successes, particularly in the defence manufacturing environment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Understand the Client's Needs
Research the company thoroughly and understand their products, services, and customer base. Be ready to discuss how you can identify and qualify new opportunities for them, and how your skills align with their strategic growth objectives.
✨Be Ready for Travel Discussions
Since the role involves UK and international travel, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to travel. Highlight any previous experience you have with travel in a professional context, as this will reassure them of your commitment to the role.
