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- Tasks: Drive commercial growth in the defence sector and manage key contracts.
- Company: Join the largest port operator in the UK, ABP.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence industry while working with top stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in defence, strong negotiation skills, and a degree in a relevant field.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Working on an exclusive basis, we are supporting Associated British Ports - ABP, to identify a NEW strategic Senior Business Development Manager on an initial 2-year fixed term contract, to further expand their defence sector activities. As the largest port operator in the UK, this position will report to and work alongside the Port Director/CEO and is to deliver commercial growth for defence related activity through ABP's land and facilities, whether through existing links with the Ministry of Defence and similar relationships or, through private company/organisation attraction.
Specifically, the role will identify, target, negotiate and manage contracts with Defence customers and contractors (including Defence Primes and their supply chains), ensuring compliant, profitable and resilient long-term partnerships. Indicative clients are defence stakeholders including MoD, DE&S, BAE, Babcock, QinetiQ and other key integrators, as well as SMEs and other organisations.
Recognising the prominence of their existing operations close to UK maritime/water locations, as well as the considerable land and facilities development opportunities which exist in secure relating locations, the Senior Business Development Manager will specifically:
- Develop and deliver ABP's Defence commercial strategy aligned with regional and group priorities.
- Identify market opportunities related to Defence estate, ship visits, laybys, logistics, training, R&D activities and infrastructure projects.
- Prepare, lead and negotiate tenders, bids and multi-year commercial agreements.
- Work closely with Strategy, Property and Operations to build Defence offerings aligned to capability and port assets.
In addition:
- Own the commercial lifecycle: pricing, terms, negotiation, contract mobilisation and renewals.
- Ensure clarity of scope, service levels and KPIs for all Defence customers.
- Track and manage revenue performance, identifying risks and opportunities.
- Consideration on Security will need to be made on potential customer interests from outside of the UK.
- Ensure that all property business at both Regional and Group level is conducted in a manner that complies with relevant legislation, ABP and environmental regulations & guidelines.
- Support and manage bid and tender delivery and include:
- Programme integration and development
- Internal company communication and customer integration
- Target added-value content and future programme inclusion
To support this position, suitable candidates should/will have the following experience levels:
- Experience working with MoD and defence Primes.
- Proven commercial management experience within defence, marine, logistics, infrastructure or government contracting.
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work with complex stakeholders and sensitive programmes.
- Financial literacy with experience in pricing, revenue modelling and contract performance analysis.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.
- An effective network within the Defence Industry.
- Understanding of port operations, marine services, supply chain or major infrastructure delivery.
- Degree in Business, Commercial, Law, Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Professional commercial or procurement certification desirable (e.g., CIPS, IACCM/WorldCC).
This is a strategically focused position seeking a commercially experienced professional. With defence sector awareness being a MUST, you should be able to support security clearances and can support working on a hybrid/remote basis, being able to travel as required.
Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in Stourbridge employer: Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in Stourbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching ABP and their role in the defence sector. Understand their current projects and challenges. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the company and its mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Business Development Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate contracts effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get that application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in Stourbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience with MoD and defence Primes, as well as any relevant commercial management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Showcase Your Achievements: When writing your application, don’t just list your responsibilities—show us what you’ve achieved! Use specific examples of successful negotiations or contracts you've managed in the defence sector. This will help us see your impact.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to understand your qualifications.
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 the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Defence Sector Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the defence sector, especially focusing on key players like the MoD and major contractors. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to ABP's strategic goals.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Highlight your approach to contract management and how you've built long-term partnerships. Be ready to discuss how you would handle complex stakeholder relationships, as this role requires strong negotiation skills to manage contracts with defence customers.
✨Align with ABP's Commercial Strategy
Understand ABP's commercial strategy and how it aligns with regional and group priorities. Be prepared to discuss how you would develop and deliver a defence commercial strategy that complements their existing operations. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since financial literacy is crucial for this role, brush up on your pricing, revenue modelling, and contract performance analysis skills. Be ready to discuss how you've tracked and managed revenue performance in previous roles, and how you would apply that experience to ensure profitable partnerships at ABP.