At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic growth in the UK Aerospace & Defence market and drive innovative sales processes.
- Company: Join IFS, a billion-dollar tech company with a commitment to sustainability and diversity.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid work, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and engage with executive-level stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a global environment while working with cutting-edge AI technology.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in enterprise software sales, especially in defence or aerospace sectors.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
IFS is a billion-dollar revenue company with 7000+ employees on all continents. Our leading AI technology is the backbone of our award-winning enterprise software solutions, enabling our customers to be their best when it really matters–at the Moment of Service™. Our commitment to internal AI adoption has allowed us to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring our colleagues can unlock their creativity and productivity, and our solutions are always cutting-edge.
At IFS, we’re flexible, we’re innovative, and we’re focused not only on how we can engage with our customers but on how we can make a real change and have a worldwide impact. We help solve some of society’s greatest challenges, fostering a better future through our agility, collaboration, and trust. We celebrate diversity and understand our responsibility to reflect the diverse world we work in. We are committed to promoting an inclusive workforce that fully represents the many different cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints of our customers, our partners, and our communities.
By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to be part of a global, diverse environment; you will be joining a winning team with a commitment to sustainability; and a company where we get things done so that you can make a positive impact on the world. We’re looking for innovative and original thinkers to work in an environment where you can #MakeYourMoments so that we can help others make theirs. With the power of our AI-driven solutions, we empower our team to change the status quo and make a real difference. If you want to change the status quo, we’ll help you make your moment. Join Team Purple. Join IFS.
IFS is expanding its footprint in the UK Aerospace & Defence market. We are seeking a strategic, results-oriented professional to lead growth across key accounts in the UK Aerospace & Defence market. You will work as part of both the IFS One Europe & LatAm team and the Global Aerospace & Defence team, collaborating closely with regional and global stakeholders.
IFS is independently recognised as a leading global supplier of enterprise software specifically designed for the A&D market, providing solutions for:
- Aerospace & Defence manufacturing – enabling complex industrial programmes
- Commercial aviation – delivering solutions for airlines and MRO providers
- Defence – supporting regulated programmes and military operations
- Fleet and asset management – optimising lifecycle performance
- Military logistics – ensuring supply chain readiness
- Services and performance-based logistics – driving efficiency and value
This role offers the opportunity to lead strategic new business pursuits while expanding existing complex engagements. You will also develop relationships across the broader UK defence and aerospace supply chain. The role is ideal for ambitious, commercially-driven leaders seeking to grow IFS’s presence in the UK.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, update, develop, and own the Key Account Strategy for named strategic accounts
- Drive the end-to-end sales process, from customer engagement and understanding customer needs and buying processes, through to ownership of the RFI/RFP process
- Take overall responsibility for customer satisfaction, working closely with IFS service delivery and partner teams
- Collaborate with the Global Aerospace & Defence Team to build strong internal networks and secure regional support
- Lead and coordinate ecosystem partners for complex A&D opportunities
- Engage with executive-level and state-adjacent stakeholders to secure alignment, drive and deliver strategic outcomes
Essential skills / experience
- Extensive experience selling large, complex enterprise software solutions
- Proven track record in enterprise sales at C-level with customers exceeding £1bn revenue
- Demonstrated success with large transactions and lengthy sales cycles in a fast-paced, consultative, and competitive market
- Sales experience within the defence, aerospace and/or government sectors
- Strong knowledge of the Aerospace & Defence industry
- Excellent English oral and written communication business presentation skills
- Proven ability to lead multi-functional teams and orchestrate complex partner ecosystems
Preferred skills / experience
- Enterprise software sales experience, preferably in a related industry
- Experience leading large, complex accounts and driving value-based outcomes
- Familiarity with regulated procurement environments and public-sector sales processes
We embrace flexibility and hybrid work opportunities to support diverse needs and lifestyles, while also valuing inclusive workplace experiences. By fostering a sense of community, we drive innovation, strengthen connections, and nurture belonging. Our commitment ensures you can work in a way that suits you best, while also engaging with colleagues to share ideas and build meaningful relationships.
Strategic Account Executive - Aerospace and Defence Staines-upon-Thames, England, United Kingdo[...] employer: Industrial and Financial Systems
IFS is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity, providing a dynamic hybrid work environment in Staines-upon-Thames. With a commitment to employee growth and sustainability, IFS empowers its team members to make impactful contributions in the Aerospace and Defence sector while fostering a culture of collaboration and respect for diverse perspectives. Join us to be part of a global team where your creativity and strategic thinking can truly shine.
Contact Details:
Industrial and Financial Systems Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Account Executive - Aerospace and Defence Staines-upon-Thames, England, United Kingdo[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the Aerospace and Defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching IFS and its role in the industry. Understand their AI-driven solutions and how they impact customers. This will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience with large enterprise software sales and how it relates to the A&D market. Tailor your stories to highlight your successes and how you’ve driven value in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining Team Purple. Let’s make those moments happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Account Executive - Aerospace and Defence Staines-upon-Thames, England, United Kingdo[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Strategic Account Executive role. Highlight your experience in enterprise software sales and how it aligns with our mission at IFS. We want to see how you can make a real impact in the Aerospace and Defence sector!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've driven sales and customer satisfaction in previous roles. We love seeing numbers and results that demonstrate your success in complex sales environments.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value innovative thinkers who can bring fresh ideas to the table. Share your passion for the Aerospace and Defence industry and how you envision contributing to our team at IFS.
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’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll get to explore more about our culture and values while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at Industrial and Financial Systems
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into IFS's products and services, especially those related to Aerospace and Defence. Understand their AI technology and how it impacts customer service. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and ability to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your success in enterprise sales, particularly in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated lengthy sales cycles and engaged with C-level executives, as this is crucial for the Strategic Account Executive role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with global teams and partners, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading multi-functional teams. Share examples of how you've built strong internal networks and collaborated effectively to achieve strategic outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your understanding of the industry and the company's goals. Inquire about their approach to fostering innovation within the Aerospace and Defence sector or how they plan to expand their market presence. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in the company's future.
