Head of Business Development in Farnborough

A core aspect of the role will be maximising the exploitation of simulation technologies across defence capability development, training transformation, test, and experimentation, while also contributing Training & Simulation expertise to wider QinetiQ Group pursuits where synthetic environments are critical to integrated, multi domain solutions. We are seeking a strategic, experienced leader with a proven track record of business growth in defence markets, particularly in the training domain and/or through exploitation of simulation capabilities. The ideal candidate will bring a broad industry perspective, established external networks, and the ability to challenge the status quo driving value through innovative approaches to customer engagement, partnerships, and solution development - supporting both UK and international growth objectives.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the Training & Simulation growth strategy to deliver a £100m+ per annum revenue business over the ISBP period, aligned with QinetiQ's broader strategic objectives.
• Lead and develop the Business Development team, setting clear objectives and fostering a high-performance, customer-focused culture.
• Develop and oversee the Training & Simulation marketing strategy to drive brand recognition and market visibility.
• Identify, shape and secure new business opportunities across UK and export defence markets, with a particular focus on:

• Individual Learning and Collective Training solutions
• Data driven and AI enabled simulation solutions across the full lifecycle (concept, test, training, operations)
• Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) integration
• Digital twins and experimentation led capability development

Qualifications

• Proven track record of leading business development or capture activities in the defence sector, ideally within Training & Simulation.
• Significant experience in developing and delivering strategic growth plans, with demonstrable success in securing complex, high-value contracts (e.g. £20M+).
• Demonstrated ability to engage with senior customer stakeholders and influence programme and investment decisions.
• Strong understanding of training transformation trends, including synthetic training, LVC environments, digital twins, and performance analytics.
• Ability to work collaboratively across internal functions to generate routes to market and shape competitive, deliverable solutions.
• A well-established external industry network and strong commercial acumen.
• Degree qualified; formal capture or BD training desirable.
• Eligible for UK SC clearance (minimum), with willingness to obtain DV if required.

As we continue to grow into new markets around the world, there’s never been a more exciting time to join QinetiQ. The formula for success is our appetite for innovation and having the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges.

As a key member of the Training & Simulation leadership team, the successful candidate will lead the Business Development function, with full accountability for accelerating the growth of our Training & Simulation portfolio from a strong base into a £100m+ per annum business over the current business planning period. As a QinetiQ employee, you’ll experience a unique working environment where teams from different backgrounds, disciplines and experience enjoy collaborating widely and openly as we undertake this exciting and rewarding journey. Through effective teamwork, and pulling together, you’ll get to experience what happens when we all share different perspectives, blend disciplines, and link technologies; constantly discovering new ways of solving complex problems in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can be authentic, feel valued and realise your full potential.

Benefits

• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
• Competitive holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days.
• Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance
• Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets and much more.
• We are proud to support the Armed Forces community by honouring the Armed Forces Covenant.
• Volunteering Opportunities - helping charities and local community.

Recruitment Process

We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels value, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your Recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments. Many roles in QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting being completed, applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment. A number of roles are also subject to additional restrictions, which mean factors such as nationality or previous nationalities may affect the roles that you can be employed in. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.