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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales and build relationships in the defense sector.
- Company: Global leader in precision micro-optics based in Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, hybrid working, and 34 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defense projects with significant autonomy.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical sales within defense or high-tech sectors.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on professional development and growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Dalgety Bay, Scotland
Reporting to: Commercial Director
About us
Headquartered in Dalgety Bay, Scotland, with a high-volume manufacturing facility in Arizona, USA, PowerPhotonic is a global leader in precision micro-optics for laser applications. The company designs and manufactures complex freeform optics that are essential to enhancing the performance and reliability of laser systems used in demanding sectors such as aerospace, defense, and security.
The opportunity
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Business Development & Sales Manager to drive sales and business growth within the defense & security markets. This is a crucial role for a results-driven individual who thrives on building long-term, high-value relationships with key government and military stakeholders. You will be responsible for defining and executing a sales strategy, from identifying new opportunities to closing complex, multi-year contracts.
Key responsibilities
- Strategic Capture: Identify and shape major defense programs early in the procurement cycle, positioning our company for long-term success.
- Customer Relationship Management: Build and maintain deep, trust-based relationships with a diverse range of defense customers, from end-users to procurement officials.
- Sales Pipeline Management: Manage the full sales lifecycle, including lead generation, qualification, proposal writing, negotiation, and contract closure.
- Market Insight: Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to identify growth areas and influence product strategy.
- Technical Solutioning: Collaborate with our engineering and product teams to create bespoke technical solutions that address specific customer requirements.
- Account Growth: Expand and retain existing key accounts by continuously demonstrating value and introducing new products and services.
- Reporting: Maintain accurate sales records using our CRM system and provide regular forecasts and activity reports to senior management.
Your profile
- Proven experience in technical, consultative sales or business development within the defense, aerospace, or a high-tech sector.
- A strong understanding of the UK Ministry of Defense (MOD) industry and decision-making processes.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage confidently with both technical and non-technical stakeholders and at all levels of an organization, from engineers to C-level executives.
- Highly organized, analytical, and performance-driven, with a track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
- Self-motivated and comfortable managing your own workload with a high degree of autonomy.
- Hold UK SC Security Check clearance or have ability to pass clearance.
- Experience with CRM software is highly desirable.
- Willingness to travel frequently, both domestically and internationally.
What we offer
- A competitive salary and incentive plan.
- The opportunity to work on projects of national importance that contribute to defense and security.
- Significant autonomy to develop and win strategic business.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on professional development.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including, e.g., pension, life assurance, private medical insurance incl optical & dental (with optional family cover), EAP and 24 hour GP cover, 34 days holiday, Hybrid working and half day finish on a Friday, where possible.
Ready to make an impact? If you are an ambitious and skilled sales professional with a passion for the defense sector, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role to hr@powerphotonic.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.
Locations
Business Development & Sales Manager - Defense Sector in Dalgety Bay, Fife employer: PowerPhotonic
Contact Detail:
PowerPhotonic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development & Sales Manager - Defense Sector in Dalgety Bay, Fife
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defense sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Dive deep into the companies you're interested in, especially their recent projects and challenges. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and show that you’re genuinely interested in their work, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s a casual chat or a formal interview, being able to clearly articulate your value proposition is crucial. Prepare a few key points about how your skills align with the needs of the defense sector and rehearse them until they roll off your tongue.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and ready to make an impact in the defense sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development & Sales Manager - Defense Sector in Dalgety Bay, Fife
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Business Development & Sales Manager in the defense sector. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially your understanding of the UK MOD industry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships and driven sales in similar sectors, and don’t forget to express your passion for the defense industry!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements. Use numbers to demonstrate how you’ve met or exceeded sales targets, as this will catch our eye and show us your results-driven mindset.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at PowerPhotonic
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the defense sector and understand the key players, trends, and challenges. Familiarise yourself with the UK Ministry of Defense's decision-making processes and recent projects. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the company's goals.
✨Build Your Story
Prepare a compelling narrative that showcases your experience in technical sales and business development. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed complex sales cycles or built strong relationships with government stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to drive results in a similar role.
✨Showcase Your Technical Acumen
Since the role involves collaborating with engineering teams, be ready to discuss how you've previously worked on technical solutions. Brush up on relevant technologies and be prepared to explain how you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the company and its strategic direction. Inquire about their current projects in the defense sector or how they envision the future of their product offerings. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career aspirations.
