At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategy and partnerships in the space and defence sectors.
- Company: Join a venture-backed deep-tech company making waves in space and defence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, equity participation, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Opportunity for operational leadership and growth in a dynamic startup environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing business and make a real impact in a cutting-edge 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.
- 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 in London employer: Foundation Partners
Foundation Partners is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee engagement and development within a vibrant work culture. With a competitive salary range of £40,000 to £50,000 per annum, employees benefit from valuable perks and opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about shaping HR operations and supporting diverse clients.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Lead - Manchester in London
✨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 competitive edge. We want you to show how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your pitch to highlight your senior BD track record and how you can help them scale into new markets.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up! Be proactive and reach out directly to companies you’re interested in, like Optera. Express your enthusiasm for their work and how you could contribute. We love seeing candidates take the initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and remind them why you’re the perfect fit. We appreciate candidates who show genuine interest and professionalism!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Lead - Manchester in London
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 convert technical advantages into commercial success!
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 senior business development experience and how you’ve navigated long sales cycles. Remember, we’re looking for someone with a startup mindset who can thrive in complex markets.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to build a go-to-market strategy. We want to see how you plan to position Optera in the market and develop partnerships. Share examples of how you've shaped commercial strategies in previous roles — this is key for us!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Optera!
How to prepare for a job interview at Foundation Partners
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Optera’s business model and the deep-tech landscape. Brush up on their active business lines, especially in space and defence, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Network
Highlight your connections within the UK and Western European primes and defence sectors. Be prepared to discuss specific partnerships or collaborations you've fostered that could benefit Optera's growth strategy.
✨Understand Long Sales Cycles
Since this role involves navigating complex procurement processes, demonstrate your comfort with long sales cycles. Share examples of how you've successfully managed similar situations in the past.
✨Think Strategically
This isn’t just about sales; it’s about shaping the future of the business. Prepare to discuss your strategic vision for entering regulated markets and how you would build a credible commercial position for Optera.
