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- Tasks: Drive commercial growth in the defence sector through strategic partnerships and contract management.
- Company: Join the largest port operator in the UK, known for innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Hybrid working available with travel as needed; excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the defence industry while working with key stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in defence contracting, strong negotiation skills, and a relevant degree.
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 to deliver commercial growth for defence related activity through ABP's land and facilities.
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Represent ABP at events and forums.
- Report internally on opportunity and project status as well as provide direction on timing plans and revenue prospects.
- Maintain close alignment with port leadership teams, operations, marine, safety, and legal.
- Support Group initiatives that involve Defence estate, property agreements or infrastructure partnerships.
- Work closely with Finance Business Partners for forecasting, pricing and margin review.
- Contribute to defence-related capital projects, feasibility studies and business cases.
- Provide commercial insight for major Defence port developments or infrastructure upgrades.
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 West Bromwich 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 West Bromwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or recruiters, make sure to highlight your experience with MoD and defence Primes. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed contracts or negotiated deals in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching ABP and their defence activities. Understand their commercial strategy and think about how your skills can contribute to their goals. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running!
✨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. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in West Bromwich
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 the MoD and defence Primes, as well as any relevant commercial management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with ABP's needs!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your work history, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your negotiation and contract management skills. Use numbers and examples to illustrate your success in driving commercial growth, as this will catch our eye!
Keep It Clear and Concise: Your application should be easy to read and straight to the point. Avoid jargon and keep your language professional yet approachable. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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 to demonstrate your expertise and passion.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. Highlight how you managed complex contracts and built long-term partnerships, as this role heavily relies on strong negotiation and contract management skills.
✨Understand ABP's Operations
Research Associated British Ports and their operations, particularly in relation to defence activities. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their commercial strategy and how you can contribute to expanding their defence sector activities.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various teams. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated across departments, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach building relationships with Strategy, Property, and Operations at ABP.