At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major government sales and convert opportunities into contracts.
- Company: Join a fast-growing engineering powerhouse in Bristol, focused on national security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary with performance bonuses and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on creativity and problem-solving.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence and national security while shaping innovative strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-value sales captures and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We’re building the UK's next generation engineering powerhouse, providing critical technology that strengthens national security and resilience. We specialise in turning advances in sensing, AI, and communications into operational capability for the edge, where connectivity may be degraded or denied. Our work focuses on accelerating the deployment of technology, improving decision‑making for frontline teams, and protecting people and critical assets in demanding environments.
Headquartered in Bristol, Rowden employs around 160 people and operates over 20,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing facilities. We have a growing international footprint and are one of Europe’s fastest‑growing engineering businesses.
As Business Development / Sales Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading and delivering complex captures in regulated procurement environments. This is a senior role with dual focus: leading from the front on major government sales (across defence, national security, CNI and emergency response), while amplifying the impact of the wider sales team.
This role will suit a professional with strong first‑principles analytical ability and genuine creativity – someone who can deconstruct complex problems, generate original approaches and shape competitive strategy from the ground up, rather than simply replicating processes learned elsewhere. This is an ideal role for someone who has experience leading high‑value (£10m+) complex captures looking for their next challenge as part of a dynamic, high‑growth business.
We are offering a competitive base salary with performance‑linked OTE (details to be discussed during the process). We welcome candidates at different stages of their careers, and the salary will reflect the skills and experience you bring to the role. Due to the sensitivities of work involved, candidates must be willing to obtain UK National Security Vetting clearance, with SC required and DV desirable.
Key areas of responsibility:
- Converting qualified sales opportunities into contracted work in our order book.
- Working across sales, engineering and delivery to make that happen.
- Shaping bids, structuring arguments and driving submissions.
- This is not a managerial post; it is a hands‑on capture role with direct accountability for outcomes.
Major Programmes Sales Lead employer: Rowden
Rowden is an exceptional employer located in Bristol, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development within a rapidly expanding engineering powerhouse dedicated to national security. Our competitive compensation package, inclusive culture, and commitment to cutting-edge technology make us an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Major Programmes Sales Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their mission and how your skills can contribute to their goals. We recommend practising common interview questions and even role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! In your conversations, highlight specific examples where you've tackled complex challenges. This is especially important for a role like Major Programmes Sales Lead, where analytical ability and creativity are key.
✨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 being part of our dynamic team at Rowden.
We think you need these skills to ace Major Programmes Sales Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Major Programmes Sales Lead role. Highlight your experience in leading complex captures and your analytical skills, as these are key to what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Creativity:We want to see how you can think outside the box! Use your application to demonstrate your ability to deconstruct problems and generate original strategies. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our dynamic team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to follow and directly related to the job description. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant!
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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rowden
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the company's mission and the specifics of the Major Programmes Sales Lead role. Familiarise yourself with their technology, especially in sensing, AI, and communications. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and how your skills align with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss examples where you've deconstructed complex problems and developed innovative solutions. Since this role requires strong first-principles analytical ability, think of specific instances where your creativity led to successful outcomes in high-value captures.
✨Be Hands-On
This isn't just about leading a team; it's about getting into the nitty-gritty of bids and submissions. Be ready to talk about your direct involvement in previous projects and how you shaped arguments and structured bids. Highlight your hands-on experience to show you're ready for this challenge.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Since you'll be working in regulated procurement environments, brush up on relevant regulations and compliance issues. Being able to discuss how you've navigated these in past roles will set you apart and show that you’re prepared for the complexities of the job.
