Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global Defence strategy and oversee complex engineering projects.
- Company: James Fisher, a leader in innovative engineering solutions for Defence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to innovation and safety in critical environments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global Defence operations and protect lives.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience in Defence with strong negotiation skills.
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. 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.
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 Inchinnan employer: James Fisher and Sons
Contact Detail:
James Fisher and Sons Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Defence Director in Inchinnan
✨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 make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching JFD and its Defence portfolio inside out. Understand their recent projects and challenges, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their needs during the conversation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for leading JFD's Defence strategy and how you can drive growth. A clear, confident presentation of your ideas can set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 your enthusiasm for joining our team at JFD and being part of something impactful.
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Director in Inchinnan
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Defence and leadership roles. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at JFD, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead complex Defence projects. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your impact—numbers speak volumes!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value emotional intelligence and strong leadership, so share examples that reflect your unique approach to managing teams and building relationships.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We often close applications early due to high volumes, so get your application in as soon as you can through our website to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons
✨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 your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your emotional intelligence and ability to influence senior stakeholders, as this role requires strong leadership capabilities.
✨Understand the Financials
Familiarise yourself with P&L management and budget oversight. Be ready to discuss how you've managed financial performance in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Defence Director position.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build and maintain relationships with customers and partners. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your success in fostering long-term partnerships in a complex environment.