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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, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defense projects and enjoy significant autonomy.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical sales and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on professional development and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
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.
Qualifications
- 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.
Business Development & Sales Manager – Defense Sector in Dalgety Bay 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars related to the defense sector. This is where you can meet key players and decision-makers, so don’t be shy—introduce yourself and make those connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Leverage LinkedIn to showcase your expertise. Share insights about the defense market, engage with relevant content, and connect with professionals in the field. It’s a great way to get noticed and position yourself as a thought leader.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their products and how they fit into the defense landscape. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at PowerPhotonic.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development & Sales Manager – Defense Sector in Dalgety Bay
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 in the defense sector and driven sales growth. Make it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate how you’ve met or exceeded sales targets in previous roles. We love seeing results!
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 don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at PowerPhotonic
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the defense sector. Understand current trends, key players, and recent developments. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their strategic goals.
✨Build Your Story
Prepare a compelling narrative about your previous experiences in business development and sales. Focus on specific achievements, especially those related to the defense or aerospace sectors. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Engage with Technical Insights
Since this role involves technical solutioning, brush up on relevant technologies and products. Be ready to discuss how you can collaborate with engineering teams to create tailored solutions for clients. Showing your technical understanding will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their current projects, challenges in the market, or how they envision the future of their product offerings. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to their success.
