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- 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: Competitive salary, bonus scheme, generous leave, and health initiatives.
- Why this job: Shape Scotland's defence future and support vital maritime operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in logistics within defence sectors and strong understanding of naval operations.
- Other info: Dynamic career development opportunities in a collaborative environment.
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 is a pivotal moment for the defence sector, making it an exciting time to join Forth Ports and help shape the UK's maritime security posture.
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 position will be based in Leith, however will work closely with our ports across Scotland and involve regular travel across our sites. 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.
Naval & Defence Business Development
- 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.
Skills Needed
About The Company
Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies. The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries. Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.
Company Culture
Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London. A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don't just take our word for it; view the "Some of our People" section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they've grown with us, and what motivates them each day. The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.
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) in Edinburgh 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) in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, conferences, and even local meet-ups. The more faces you know, the better your chances of landing that Business Development Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or industry contacts, don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge about naval operations and UK defence policy. This will position you as a go-to person in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or events. A quick email thanking someone for their time can go a long way. It keeps you on their radar and shows you’re genuinely interested in building relationships within the defence community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. By applying directly, you’ll be in the best position to showcase your skills and experience tailored to what Forth Ports is looking for in a Business Development Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager (Defence) in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in logistics and defence sectors, and don’t forget to showcase your understanding of naval operations and UK defence policy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your skills align with Forth Ports' mission. Be sure to mention your experience with strategic partnerships and growth in the defence sector.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial acumen and strategic thinking. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you've successfully captured opportunities in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
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. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in the sector.
✨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 on LinkedIn. Understanding their experiences can give you valuable insights and help you tailor your answers during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've identified and converted opportunities in a logistics-focused role. Highlight your strategic thinking and how it led to successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to drive growth for Forth Ports.
✨Be Ready to Represent
As a Business Development Manager, you'll be an ambassador for Forth Ports. Think about how you would present the company at formal events or conferences. Prepare a brief pitch about what makes Forth Ports a strategic partner in the defence sector, and practice delivering it with confidence.