At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategy and partnerships in the space and defence sectors.
- Company: Optera, a venture-backed deep-tech business with innovative capabilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related commission, equity participation, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Opportunity for operational leadership and career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing company and make a real impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in business development within space or defence markets.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Optera is an early-stage UK deep-tech business operating across a portfolio of related capabilities in space and defence. We are backed by experienced institutional investors and supported by a board with deep sector credibility. Our active business lines sit at different points on the maturity curve — from a near‑term revenue‑generating space domain awareness business (Astracyte) through to longer‑cycle on‑orbit demonstrators and proprietary sensor technology that becomes available in roughly two years. The strategic intent is to build a saleable group: revenue is one indicator of progress, but commercial proof points, partnerships and pipeline are equally important to the eventual exit narrative.
Purpose of the role
The Commercial Lead is accountable for converting Optera’s technical advantage into a credible, defensible commercial position across its active business lines. You will own the go‑to‑market: positioning, target account strategy, partnerships with primes, and entry onto strategic programmes — starting in Western Europe and the UK, then expanding into the United States. The CEO will continue to lead the closure of in‑flight opportunities through 2026; this role builds the forward pipeline and the commercial machinery that allows Optera to scale into 2027 and beyond. It is a senior, strategic seat shaping how the business enters a complex, IP‑sensitive, regulated market — not a transactional sales role.
Candidate profile
- We are looking for a senior business development leader with genuine credibility in space and/or defence, the discipline to operate in long‑cycle, IP‑sensitive markets, and a clear startup mindset.
Essential
- Senior BD / commercial track record selling complex, high‑value systems into space, defence or adjacent regulated markets.
- Demonstrable network among UK and Western European primes, defence customers and programme offices.
- Comfort with long sales cycles, formal tenders, complex procurement and multi‑stakeholder governance.
- UK work visa essential. No relocation or sponsorship available.
Why this role
You’ll see and shape every part of the business — commercial, technical, financial and cultural — at the moment it scales. There is a genuine path to broader operational leadership over time, and the equity case that goes with it.
Compensation
- Competitive base salary benchmarked to senior space/defence BD roles in the UK market.
- Performance‑related commission tied to qualified pipeline conversion and signed contract value.
- Standard UK workplace pension at the statutory minimum (employer contribution in line with auto‑enrolment requirements).
- Meaningful equity participation as the principal long‑term upside, calibrated to seniority and stage.
Commercial Lead - Manchester employer: Foundation Partners Group
Optera is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the deep-tech space and defence sectors. With a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration, employees are empowered to shape the future of the business while enjoying competitive compensation and meaningful equity participation. Located in Manchester, this role offers unique opportunities for professional growth and leadership development in a cutting-edge industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Lead - Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the space and defence sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that who you know can sometimes matter just as much as what you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by doing your homework. Understand Optera’s business lines and their market positioning. We want you to show up not just as a candidate, but as someone who’s genuinely interested in shaping the future of the company. Tailor your pitch to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after your interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and mention any key points from the conversation that resonated with you. We love seeing candidates who are proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Optera. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Lead - Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Commercial Lead. Highlight your experience in space and defence, and don’t forget to showcase your network among UK and Western European primes. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for Optera. Talk about your track record in business development and how you can help us scale into new markets. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your understanding of long sales cycles and complex procurement processes. We’re looking for someone who can navigate these challenges with ease, so share examples of how you've successfully managed similar situations in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join the Optera family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Foundation Partners Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Optera's business model and the deep-tech landscape, especially in space and defence. Brush up on their current projects and how they fit into the market. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Network Like a Pro
Leverage your existing connections in the space and defence sectors. If you know anyone who has worked with or for Optera, reach out to them for insights. Mentioning relevant contacts during your interview can demonstrate your credibility and network.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare to discuss your experience with long sales cycles and complex procurement processes. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these challenges in the past, as this role is all about building a robust commercial strategy.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company’s goals. Inquire about their plans for expansion into the US or how they measure success in building partnerships. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in their future.
