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- Tasks: Lead global Defence strategy and oversee complex engineering projects.
- Company: James Fisher, a leader in innovative Defence solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid work environment, competitive salary, and commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global Defence operations and protect lives.
- Qualifications: Strategic leadership experience in Defence with strong commercial skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to mission-critical work.
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.
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: JFD Global
Contact Detail:
JFD Global 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 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's recent projects and initiatives. Show that you understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic leadership skills and knowledge of the Defence market.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. This keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at JFD!
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Director in London
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 Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Early: Given the high volume of applications we receive, it’s best to submit your application as soon as you can. Don’t wait until the deadline—get your application in early to avoid missing out!
How to prepare for a job interview at JFD Global
✨Know Your Defence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Defence market, especially in naval operations. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges in the industry. This will help you speak confidently about how you can lead JFD's global Defence strategy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership capabilities and emotional intelligence. Think about times when you've successfully managed large teams or complex projects. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration across different departments, as this role requires working closely with various teams.
✨Understand the Financials
Since you'll be managing a £90m+ P&L, it's crucial to demonstrate your financial acumen. Familiarise yourself with budget management and KPI frameworks. Be prepared to discuss how you've previously ensured strong financial discipline and reporting in your past roles.
✨Build Relationships
This role involves acting as a senior point of contact for global Defence customers. Think about how you've built and maintained relationships in the past. Prepare to share strategies you've used to strengthen customer ties and ensure exceptional execution of their requirements.
