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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth and develop strategic partnerships in the UK’s naval and defence sectors.
- Company: Join Forth Ports, a leading port operator committed to sustainability and national resilience.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, generous leave, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape Scotland's defence future and support vital naval operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in logistics within defence sectors and strong understanding of naval operations.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Location: Forth Ports Ltd, 100 Ocean Drive
Forth Ports is one of the UK’s leading and most progressive port operator groups, playing a vital role in connecting the UK with Europe and global markets. As a multimodal port owner and operator, we deliver innovative, high-quality port services that support a wide range of sectors—including defence. With a clear commitment to sustainability, we have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042. At the same time, we are strengthening Scotland’s strategic defence capabilities, positioning our ports as key partners for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), NATO, and allied naval forces.
This position is based in Leith but will work closely with our ports across Scotland and involve regular travel to our sites.
About The Role
This role will play a significant role in driving growth and developing strategic partnerships across the UK’s naval and defence sectors. This is a rare opportunity to position Forth Ports as the preferred Scottish base for Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, NATO, and allied naval operations, while supporting national resilience and the UK’s Strategic Defence Review objectives.
- Capture new opportunities arising from the UK Strategic Defence Review, establishing Forth Ports as the port of choice for naval visits (Leith, Rosyth, Dundee)
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with the Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, NATO, and other international partners, as well as political stakeholders and key supply chain contacts
- Facilitate seamless planning and execution of naval visits, including berth allocation, infrastructure, and service provision
- Expand the operational footprint of Scottish ports to support mobilisation, logistics, munitions basing, exercises, training, and critical infrastructure surveillance
- Position Forth Ports as a strategic, resilient multi-port platform, reducing reliance on single hubs and enabling faster access to the North Sea and High North
- Represent Forth Ports at formal naval events, conferences, and networking opportunities, promoting the company as a long-term defence partner
Strategic Responsibilities
- Map and optimise current operations, including leased berths, warehousing, and support facilities
- Identify opportunities to expand services or infrastructure in response to evolving defence requirements
- Monitor policy direction and emerging defence trends to inform strategic decisions
- Provide regular updates to the Commercial Director on operational developments, opportunities, and stakeholder engagement
- Lead the design and delivery of a 5-year plan to grow Forth Ports’ defence business
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in a logistics-focused role within the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, or defence-related sectors
- Strong understanding of naval operations, UK defence policy, and MoD requirements
- Excellent commercial acumen, strategic thinking, and ability to identify and convert opportunities
- A confident ambassador, capable of representing Forth Ports at senior industry, naval, and government forums
- Ideally degree-educated, with substantial experience in defence or complex maritime operations
Our Commitment
Safety, sustainability, and collaboration define everything we do. We are building a zero-harm culture while supporting national resilience and strategic defence capabilities.
What Forth Ports Can Offer You
- Competitive salary with regular reviews
- Bonus scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Defined contribution pension scheme with up to 16.5% joint contribution plus life assurance
- Health and wellbeing initiatives, including EAP, occupational health services, and discounted gym memberships
- Cycle to Work scheme and on-site parking
- Family-friendly policies and employee discount platform across UK-wide services
Be Part of Scotland’s Defence Future
This is your chance to join a forward-looking team at one of the UK’s most strategically important ports. Play a central role in shaping naval operations, supporting national resilience, and driving growth across Scotland’s defence infrastructure.
Required Criteria
- Proven experience in a logistics-focused role within the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, or defence-related sectors
- Strong understanding of naval operations, UK defence policy, and MoD requirements
- A confident ambassador, capable of representing Forth Ports at senior industry, naval, and government forums
- Full UK working rights and UK driving license
Desired Criteria
Closing Date Thursday 16th April, 2026
Contract Type fulltime
Salary From £60,000.00 Yearly to £70,000.00 Yearly
Business Development Manager (Defence) employer: Forth Ports Limited
Contact Detail:
Forth Ports Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager (Defence)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, conferences, and naval gatherings to meet key players in the defence sector. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for defence! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your insights on current trends and how they relate to Forth Ports' mission. It’ll show you’re not just another candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for job openings to be posted. Reach out directly to Forth Ports through our website and express your interest in the Business Development Manager role. A little initiative goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching Forth Ports’ recent projects and initiatives in the defence sector. Being knowledgeable about our work will help you stand out and demonstrate your commitment to our goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager (Defence)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Business Development Manager in Defence. Highlight your experience in logistics and any connections you have with the Royal Navy or MoD. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about defence and how you can contribute to Forth Ports' goals. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically about the defence sector. Share examples of how you've identified opportunities or navigated challenges in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can think ahead!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forth Ports Limited
✨Know Your Defence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK defence policy and naval operations. Familiarise yourself with the latest Strategic Defence Review and how it impacts Forth Ports. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the bigger picture.
✨Build Relationships Before You Walk In
Networking is key in this industry. If possible, try to connect with current or former employees of Forth Ports or those in the defence sector before your interview. Having insights from insiders can give you an edge and help you tailor your responses.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've identified and converted opportunities in previous roles. Highlight your strategic thinking and how it aligns with Forth Ports' goals, especially in expanding their defence business.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations related to logistics and naval operations. Think about challenges you've faced in the past and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.