Business Development Manager - Defence

Business Development Manager (Defence)

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 this 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.

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.