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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 work options, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting role with potential for career advancement in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence industry with strategic partnerships.
- Qualifications: Experience with MoD and strong negotiation skills required.
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.
- 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
Qualifications:
- 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 Southampton employer: Jonathan Lee
Contact Detail:
Jonathan Lee Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research ABP and their current projects in the defence sector. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see you shine, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your negotiation skills! Since this role involves managing contracts and partnerships, think of examples from your past where you successfully negotiated deals. We love hearing about real-life experiences that demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make an impact in the defence sector. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Business Development Manager - Defence in Southampton
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, and showcase your commercial management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the defence sector and how you can contribute to ABP's growth. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since negotiation is key in this role, make sure to include examples of successful negotiations you've led in the past. We want to see how you’ve managed contracts and built long-term partnerships in your previous roles.
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 shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee
✨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 past negotiations you've led, particularly in complex environments. Highlight your approach to managing contracts and relationships with stakeholders. Being able to discuss your negotiation strategies and outcomes will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Senior Business Development Manager role.
✨Align with ABP's Vision
Research ABP’s current operations and future plans, especially in relation to the defence sector. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their commercial strategy and how you can help expand their defence activities. Showing that you understand their business model will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex projects. Think about potential challenges in the defence sector and how you would address them. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and effectively during the interview.