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- Tasks: Drive growth in key Defence accounts and close high-value sales opportunities.
- Company: Join a leading research centre transforming the Defence sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to work on impactful projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Defence by leveraging cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in Defence account management and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for significant revenue growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Senior Strategic Account Manager with proven experience and relationships within the Defence Sector to join our growing defence business. This role can be based in either Coventry, Liverpool or Oxford.
You’ll be responsible for facilitating significant and strategically relevant growth of key accounts across our Defence sector, as part of our broader cross‑Defence industry engagement, through the identification and conversion of sales opportunities. These opportunities will primarily be direct industrial projects with an awareness of complementary ‘collaborative research & development’ (CR&D) activities that are completed in partnership with industry organisations and a variety of public sector bodies. Ultimately the focus is on delivering high impact manufacturing transformation for individual organisations, industry sectors and UK Plc.
The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) is a research centre operating within Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 4‑9, taking academic research and maturing it to the point where it can be exploited by industry. We work with global corporates and SMEs alike, helping them embrace latest technology, improve productivity and maximise value creation opportunities & competitive advantage.
As Senior Strategic Account Manager– Defence, you’ll lead significant revenue growth within our key accounts.
Responsibilities- Building and nurturing relationships
- Identifying and closing high‑value sales opportunities, from initial engagement to delivery
- Understanding customer roadmaps and translating complex aspirations into tangible outcomes
- Developing strategic account plans and collaborating with internal experts to deliver world‑class solutions
- Managing your pipeline with precision – owning every stage from lead generation to closing
We’re looking for a Strategic Account Manager with proven experience in successfully developing accounts and building strong partnerships within the defence sector, operating at a management level in a commercial environment. You’ll have knowledge and understanding of how the Defence industry is developing based on PEST factors and associated strategic opportunities driven through demonstrable experience of working in the defence environment over a long term period (5‑15 years).
Key Requirements- Experience of building and closing multi‑million‑pound sales pipelines
- Consultative / solution selling experience within Account Management or Business Development roles
- Thorough experience of sales and CRM tools such as Miller Heiman and their application
- Good written communication skills e.g. concise proposal writing
- The ability to engage with internal stakeholders, particularly engineers, to gain and credibly communicate an understanding of technology and engineering opportunities
- A proactive, agile mindset with a passion for transformation
- Driving licence
- Knowledge of engineering and manufacturing techniques
- Degree in Business or Engineering (MBA preferred)
Senior Strategic Account Manager- Defence in Coventry employer: Manufacturing Technology Centre
Contact Detail:
Manufacturing Technology Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Strategic Account Manager- Defence in Coventry
✨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 on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you’re chatting with potential employers or networking contacts, make sure to highlight your experience in developing accounts and closing high-value sales. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth in previous roles to really impress them.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your job search! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you’re interested in, like us at StudySmarter, and express your interest in potential roles. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from a simple conversation.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your skills sharp! Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the Defence sector. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to enhance your knowledge. This not only boosts your CV but also gives you great talking points during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Strategic Account Manager- Defence in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in the Defence sector. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements and relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Strategic Account Manager role. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships and closed high-value sales in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since good written communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. We love a well-structured proposal, so keep it professional but let your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manufacturing Technology Centre
✨Know Your Defence Sector Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and developments in the Defence sector. Understand the key players, current challenges, and opportunities. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and nurtured relationships in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific accounts you've managed and how you’ve turned them into high-value partnerships. This is crucial for a Senior Strategic Account Manager role.
✨Master the Art of Consultative Selling
Be prepared to demonstrate your consultative selling approach. Think of scenarios where you've identified customer needs and translated them into successful outcomes. Highlight your experience with sales tools like Miller Heiman to back up your claims.
✨Engage with Technical Knowledge
Since you'll be working closely with engineers, it’s important to communicate effectively about technology and engineering opportunities. Brush up on relevant technical knowledge and be ready to discuss how you can bridge the gap between technical teams and clients.