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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, diverse work environment, and impactful career opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in global Defence operations and protect lives.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience in Defence with strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to innovation and safety.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
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.
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.
About Us
James Fisher is a global engineering services company delivering innovative solutions in demanding and safety-critical environments across the Energy, Defence and Maritime Transport sectors. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business that drives progress across the Blue Economy. JFD, part of the James Fisher Group, is a world leader in submarine rescue, diving, hyperbaric and mission-critical Defence capability. We operate globally, partnering with navies and defence organisations to deliver life-saving systems, advanced equipment and specialist services. 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. Due to the volume of applications, we receive for our vacancies, on occasion applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. 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 Westhill 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 Westhill
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the Defence sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching JFD and its Defence portfolio inside out. Understand their recent projects and challenges, so you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed large teams or complex projects in the Defence sector. This will help you stand out as a strategic leader.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, applying early can give you an edge, as we often close applications before the deadline due to high interest.
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Director in Westhill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Defence leadership and complex engineering programmes. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at JFD!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've driven growth or improved performance in previous roles. We love seeing quantifiable results that demonstrate your impact!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value emotional intelligence and strong leadership, so don’t be afraid to share your unique approach to building relationships and leading teams.
Apply Early: Given the high volume of applications we receive, it’s best to apply as soon as you can. We don’t want you to miss out on this fantastic opportunity, so head over to our website and submit your application today!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your Defence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Defence market, especially in naval contexts. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges in the industry. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership capabilities and emotional intelligence. Think about times when you've successfully led teams through complex projects or negotiations. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration and drive performance across diverse teams.
✨Understand the Financials
Since this role involves managing a £90m+ P&L, it's crucial to demonstrate your financial acumen. Familiarise yourself with budget management, KPI frameworks, and how to align financial goals with strategic objectives. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed budgets in previous roles.
✨Build Relationships
As a senior point of contact for global Defence customers, relationship-building is key. Think about how you've developed and maintained strong relationships in past roles. Be ready to share strategies you've used to engage stakeholders and ensure exceptional execution of customer requirements.
