At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage defence sales opportunities and develop relationships with military and government stakeholders.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge aerospace technology organisation with exciting growth plans.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, private healthcare, pension scheme, and long-term career growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with engineering and commercial teams, plus mentoring opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative defence programmes with international impact and travel opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in aerospace or defence sales and strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 € per year.
An opportunity has arisen for a Defence Sales Manager to join a growing advanced engineering and aerospace technology organisation developing highly specialised platforms and systems for defence, security and commercial applications. The business operates at the forefront of innovative aerospace and mobility technologies, delivering complex engineered solutions for demanding operational environments. With increasing international interest and significant long-term growth plans, the organisation is expanding its defence and security commercial capability across UK and export markets.
This role sits within the commercial team and is focused on managing defence-sector business development activity across key UK and international territories. The successful candidate will support complex, long-cycle defence sales campaigns, coordinate international stakeholder engagement and help drive strategic growth across military and national security programmes.
This position is suited to a commercially driven sales professional with experience in aerospace, defence or technically complex engineering environments, who can manage strategic customer relationships and navigate highly regulated procurement environments.
Main Responsibilities of the Defence Sales Manager (Bedfordshire, UK):- Manage and prioritise defence and security sales opportunities across allocated territories
- Develop and maintain relationships with military, government and defence industry stakeholders
- Identify and pursue new international business opportunities across defence and aerospace markets
- Support defence sales campaigns from early-stage opportunity qualification through to contract award
- Coordinate with geographically dispersed commercial teams to ensure aligned messaging and campaign execution
- Lead outreach activity to both new and existing defence customers
- Support and mentor junior sales personnel as the commercial team expands
- Represent the organisation at defence exhibitions, trade events and industry forums
- Maintain accurate CRM records and structured opportunity tracking processes
- Develop strategic relationships with defence primes, aerospace OEMs and export customers
- Experience within aerospace, defence, national security or technically complex B2B environments
- Proven experience managing long-cycle sales opportunities with government or regulated customers
- Strong understanding of defence-sector procurement and stakeholder environments
- International or export sales experience within defence or aerospace markets
- Experience using CRM systems and structured sales methodologies
- Experience coaching, mentoring or managing junior sales staff
- Eligible to obtain UK security clearance
- Prior military service or defence procurement experience
- Understanding of aerospace platforms, surveillance systems or defence capability integration
- Familiarity with defence acquisition or export control processes
- Existing relationships with defence primes or international defence organisations
Hybrid working arrangement based in Bedfordshire, UK. Minimum one day per week in the office with flexibility around travel and customer activity. Frequent UK and international travel across Europe and wider export markets. Opportunity to support highly innovative defence and aerospace programmes with international growth potential. Collaborative environment working alongside engineering, programme and commercial teams. Long-term career growth within an expanding advanced technology organisation. Private healthcare and company pension scheme available.
To apply for this Defence Sales Manager role, please send your CV to Kishan Chandarana.
Sales Executive Overseas employer: Redline Group - Specialist Recruitment for Technology & Electronics Companies
Join a pioneering advanced engineering and aerospace technology organisation that is at the forefront of innovation in defence and security. With a collaborative work culture, opportunities for long-term career growth, and a commitment to employee development, this role offers a unique chance to engage with international markets while supporting cutting-edge programmes. Enjoy the benefits of private healthcare and a company pension scheme, all within a flexible hybrid working arrangement based in Bedfordshire.
Contact Detail:
Redline Group - Specialist Recruitment for Technology & Electronics Companies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Executive Overseas
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence and aerospace sectors. Attend industry events, trade shows, and exhibitions to meet potential employers and make valuable contacts. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or industry professionals, don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge about defence sales and procurement processes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or events! A quick email thanking someone for their time can go a long way. It keeps you on their radar and shows that you’re genuinely interested in opportunities within the organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting roles, including the Defence Sales Manager position. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Executive Overseas
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in aerospace and defence, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the role. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background fits perfectly with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your international sales experience and stakeholder engagement skills.
Showcase Your Skills:We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex environments. Make sure to highlight your experience with CRM systems and structured sales methodologies. This will show us you’re ready to hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Redline Group - Specialist Recruitment for Technology & Electronics Companies
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in aerospace and defence. Understand the specific technologies and systems the company develops, as well as their competitors. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Relationships
Be ready to discuss your existing relationships with military, government, and defence industry stakeholders. Highlight any successful collaborations or sales campaigns you've led, as this will demonstrate your ability to manage strategic customer relationships effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle complex sales cycles or navigate procurement environments. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking in similar situations.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves coordinating with dispersed teams and mentoring junior staff, be prepared to discuss your teamwork and leadership experiences. Share examples of how you've supported others and contributed to a collaborative environment in previous roles.
