Director of Sales - EMEA

Director of Sales - EMEA

Full-Time 100000 - 150000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Shoptalk

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead sales across EMEA, engaging with navies and defence ministries to drive autonomy solutions.
  • Company: Join a rapidly growing company at the forefront of maritime robotics and defence tech.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of naval autonomy.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with significant impact on the future of unmanned surface operations.
  • Why this job: Be a key player in transforming defence operations with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: 7-10 years of sales experience in defence or high-tech maritime sectors.

The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 € per year.

Location: London Metropolitan Area, UK | Travel: 40–60%

Join the Autonomy Revolution in Defense & Maritime. Autonomous and unmanned surface vessels are transforming how nations protect their waters, project power, and operate fleets. The demand surge across Europe has created one of the fastest-growing markets in defense. Sea Machines is at the center of this shift. With 200+ autonomous vessel deployments across vessels from 3–90m in length, we deliver field‑proven technology that outpaces competitors while delivering reliability. We’re expanding aggressively and looking for a high‑impact sales leader who wants to shape the future of naval autonomy.

The Director of Sales – EMEA will own and drive all regional sales and business development across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This is a senior hunter role at the forefront of one of the fastest-growing defense tech segments.

  • Lead engagements with navies, integrators, primes, shipyards, and defense ministries.
  • Shape procurement pathways for autonomy solutions.
  • Build a high-performance regional sales engine as demand scales.
  • Close strategic deals that define the future of unmanned surface operations.
  • Manage and build out a team of Regional Business Development Managers.

This is a chance to join a company in rapid ascent—positioned at the intersection of maritime robotics and defense modernization.

The ideal candidate thrives in frontier markets, fast‑paced environments, and emerging technologies. Has experience selling into defense, military, or high‑tech maritime ecosystems. Excels at complex, multi‑stakeholder sales cycles with government, shipyards, primes, and integrators.

Core Experience Requirements:

  • 7-10 years selling to Navies and Coast Guards, Ministry of Defense/Procurement Authorities, Defense Primes, and Shipyards.
  • Experience selling across the EMEA Region and establishing/maintaining relationships face to face.
  • Technical aptitude, able to discuss and discern vessel platforms and electronics.
  • Securing contracts via NATO Procurement Processes and understanding of Combat Craft and Small Vessel Market.
  • Experience in high growth defense organizations a plus.

Director of Sales - EMEA employer: Shoptalk

Sea Machines is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the forefront of maritime robotics and defense technology. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for our team to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative setting while contributing to meaningful advancements in naval autonomy. Located in the vibrant London Metropolitan Area, our culture fosters collaboration and high performance, making it an ideal place for ambitious sales leaders to make a significant impact in a rapidly expanding market.

Shoptalk

Contact Detail:

Shoptalk Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Sales - EMEA

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Attend industry events, conferences, and meetups related to defense and maritime tech. This is where you can connect with key players and decision-makers who might just be looking for someone like you.

Tip Number 2

Leverage LinkedIn to showcase your expertise. Share insights about the latest trends in naval autonomy and engage with posts from companies you're interested in. This will help you get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their products and how they fit into the market. This will show that you're not just another candidate but someone genuinely interested in shaping the future of their business.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals ready to make an impact in the defense sector. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Sales - EMEA

Sales Leadership
Business Development
Relationship Management
Complex Sales Cycles
Technical Aptitude
Understanding of Defense Procurement Processes
Experience in Maritime Ecosystems

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Sales role. Highlight your experience in selling to navies and defense ministries, and don’t forget to showcase your success in complex sales cycles. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about maritime autonomy and how your background aligns with our mission. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role. We love a good story!

Showcase Your Technical Knowledge:Since this role involves discussing vessel platforms and electronics, make sure to highlight your technical aptitude. We want to know that you can engage with stakeholders on a deep level, so don’t shy away from mentioning relevant projects or experiences.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly!

How to prepare for a job interview at Shoptalk

Know Your Market

Before the interview, dive deep into the defence and maritime sectors. Understand the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in EMEA. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with the company's goals.

Showcase Your Sales Strategy

Prepare to discuss your approach to complex sales cycles, especially in multi-stakeholder environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these situations in the past, particularly with navies and defence ministries.

Demonstrate Technical Aptitude

Brush up on your understanding of autonomous vessels and related technologies. Being able to discuss technical aspects and how they relate to customer needs will set you apart as a candidate who can bridge the gap between sales and engineering.

Build Rapport with the Interviewers

Establishing a connection with your interviewers is key. Show genuine interest in their work and the company’s mission. Ask insightful questions about their current projects and future plans to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.