At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive new business growth and market expansion across Europe in the defence sector.
- Company: Ocean Software, a leader in operational readiness solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with global reach and significant career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Shape the future of defence technology while building valuable relationships.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in business development within Defence or mission-critical software markets.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
The Business Development Manager – Europe is responsible for driving Ocean Software’s new business growth and market expansion across Europe. This role is focused on the development of new business primarily within the EMEA region and is accountable for pipeline creation, qualification, and conversion of net-new revenue opportunities.
This role will lead market engagement across European and UK defence forces, NATO agencies, defence primes and system integrators to position the Ocean Platform (FlightPro®, SmartBase®, TAMS®) as the Operational Readiness layer supporting personnel-readiness, training, and force availability at squadron level through to joint-domain and coalition C2 environments. Operating within a global sales model, the BDM will work in close alignment with the Head of Sales (HQ, Australia) to deliver against global new business revenue strategy, while partnering with and reporting to the GM EMEA to ensure strong regional execution, market prioritisation, and stakeholder access.
The BDM will combine deep defence ecosystem knowledge, multinational relationship-building, and strategic capture capability to secure new business opportunities, shape requirements, and influence partner nations. Success in this role will be measured by qualified pipeline growth, new customer acquisition, and conversion of strategic opportunities into contracted revenue within EMEA.
Requirements
- Minimum 10 years of proven experience in business development or sales roles within Defence or mission-critical software markets.
- Demonstrated success in net-new business acquisition within EMEA.
- Proven success in winning large-scale enterprise contracts with Defence industry prime contractors, government or defence agencies.
- Experience working within a global sales structure, collaborating across HQ and regional leadership.
- Demonstrated experience in capture planning, bid preparation, and tender submissions.
- Demonstrated ability to articulate value propositions and lead strategic solution sales.
- Strong commercial acumen, including pipeline management, forecasting, and revenue ownership.
- Strong relationships & network of contacts within European Defence industry.
- Experience using CRM systems to manage opportunities, pipeline, and forecasting with high integrity.
- Understanding of ISO, ITAR, or equivalent compliance and security frameworks relevant to Defence.
- Excellent presentation, negotiation, and written communication skills.
- Ability to adapt to multi-national, cross-cultural environments.
- Willingness to travel as required.
- Familiarity with enterprise software delivery models.
- Experience selling enterprise SaaS or platform-based solutions.
- Tertiary qualifications in Business, Sales, Aviation, Engineering, or related fields.
Business Development Manager - Europe employer: Ocean Software
Ocean Software is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration within the defence sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to engage with key stakeholders across Europe, making a meaningful impact in the industry. Our commitment to a supportive culture and strategic market engagement ensures that our team members thrive while contributing to cutting-edge solutions for operational readiness.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager - Europe
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the defence industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in business development and your understanding of the defence ecosystem. Share specific examples of how you've driven new business and secured contracts in the past.
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After interviews or networking events, send a quick follow-up message to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest. It shows professionalism and keeps you top of mind when they’re making decisions.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for job openings! Applying directly through our site not only streamlines your application but also shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at Ocean Software.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager - Europe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Business Development Manager. Highlight your experience in business development within the Defence sector and any relevant software sales achievements. 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 tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can drive new business growth at Ocean Software. Be specific about your experience with EMEA markets and strategic capture.
Showcase Your Network:We love seeing strong connections! Mention any relationships you have within the European Defence industry, as well as your experience working with NATO agencies or defence primes. This will help us understand your potential impact on our business.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details 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 Ocean Software
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the European defence landscape. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience aligns with the company's goals and how you can drive new business growth.
✨Showcase Your Network
Highlight your existing relationships within the defence industry during the interview. Be ready to discuss how these connections can be leveraged for business development. This demonstrates your ability to hit the ground running and adds credibility to your candidacy.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about your approach to pipeline creation and conversion. Prepare specific examples of past successes in winning large-scale contracts or navigating complex sales processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Articulate Value Propositions
Be prepared to discuss how you would position the Ocean Platform's solutions to potential clients. Tailor your value propositions to the needs of defence forces and agencies, showcasing your understanding of their operational readiness requirements and how your solutions can meet them.
