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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global Defence strategy and oversee complex engineering projects.
- Company: James Fisher, a leader in innovative Defence solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work environment, and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global Defence operations and save lives.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience in Defence with strong commercial skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to innovation and safety.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
About the Role
Please note that this role requires security checks.
Our Defence Director will lead JFD’s global Defence portfolio, shaping and delivering the strategy that accelerates our growth, expands our market presence, and strengthens our position as a trusted partner to Defence customers worldwide. This is a high-impact senior leadership role at the heart of JFD’s mission—driving performance across a £90m+ P&L, guiding complex engineering programmes, and representing JFD at the highest levels with government, military and industry partners.
You will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, working collaboratively across Product Lines, Operations, Bids, Marketing and Regional teams to ensure outstanding delivery for our international customer base. Based in the UK, you will operate in a hybrid environment with regular engagement across our global operations.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead and execute JFD's global Defence strategy to accelerate revenue growth and expand market share.
- Identify and prioritise new markets, customer segments and channels while strengthening existing relationships.
- Champion and embed a generative safety culture across all Defence operations.
- Oversee delivery of large-scale, complex Defence engineering projects and service customers.
- Act as senior point of contact for global Defence customers, building enduring relationships.
- Own customer requirements and ensure exceptional execution through operational teams.
- Lead major international bids and define winning commercial strategies.
- Monitor performance through KPI frameworks aligned with monthly and annual business objectives.
- Manage Product Line and regional budgets, ensuring strong financial discipline and reporting.
- Sponsor new product development initiatives to drive innovation and portfolio vitality.
What we’re looking for:
You will be a strategic Defence leader with deep knowledge of the Defence market, ideally Naval and proven experience managing large, international Defence portfolios. With a strong understanding of Defence procurement, contracting models and geopolitical context you must have exceptional leadership capabilities with high emotional intelligence.
With demonstrable experience delivering complex engineering or technical Defence programmes you will be highly commercial, with strong negotiation and influencing skills at senior levels within an international matrix organisation.
This is a unique opportunity to deliver mission-critical work that protects lives and supports global Defence operations. If this sounds like your next strategic leadership challenge, click apply now.
Applications may close early due to high volumes—please apply as soon as possible.
James Fisher and Sons are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications for candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success depends on our talented and diverse workforce.
Defence Director in London employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
Contact Detail:
James Fisher and Sons plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Defence Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the Defence sector, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Defence Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching JFD’s projects and their impact on the Defence market. Show us you understand our mission and how you can contribute to our growth strategy—this will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for leading JFD’s Defence portfolio. Highlight your experience with complex engineering programmes and how you’ve successfully managed large teams in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of the JFD team.
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Defence Director role. Highlight your experience in managing large Defence portfolios and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at JFD!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Defence sector and how you can contribute to our growth. Be sure to mention specific achievements that demonstrate your strategic leadership skills.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, let us know about your leadership style and how you foster collaboration across teams. We value emotional intelligence and want to see how you build relationships with both customers and colleagues.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your Defence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in the Defence sector, especially in naval operations. Being able to discuss current events or recent developments will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your emotional intelligence and how it has helped you navigate complex situations. This role is all about leadership, so make sure you can demonstrate your capabilities.
✨Understand Their Strategy
Familiarise yourself with JFD's One James Fisher strategy and how it relates to their Defence portfolio. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals of revenue growth and market expansion. Tailoring your answers to align with their mission will set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their approach to safety culture or how they measure success in their Defence operations. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
