We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Key Account Manager to lead and grow strategic customer relationships within the defence sector. This is a pivotal role, responsible for building long-term partnerships, unlocking new commercial opportunities, and driving sustainable revenue growth. Working at the intersection of customer requirements and our engineered and manufactured production capabilities, you will ensure we consistently deliver solutions that meet both technical and commercial objectives. The ideal candidate will combine a strong engineering or technical manufacturing background with proven account management expertise, ideally gained within a highly regulated industry. If you are commercially driven, technically credible, and skilled at building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, this is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping and growing strategic defence partnerships. Key Responsibilities: Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key defence clients, acting as the primary point of contact and trusted partner
Collaborate with engineering, production, and project management teams to ensure delivery of solutions that meet technical, contractual, and quality requirements
Support the identification and development of account growth opportunities, including new programmes, product applications, and service offerings
Lead commercial activities across assigned accounts, including contract management, variations, and pricing considerations, with sound commercial judgement
Engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels, balancing client needs with organisational priorities
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory, security, and quality standards within a highly regulated defence environment
Monitor customer requirements, industry trends, and competitor activity to inform account strategy and delivery
Conduct project closure analysis and reporting, evaluating financial and delivery performance, capturing lessons learned, and applying insights to continuous improvement and future account activities
Qualifications: Demonstrable experience in customer service or account support, ideally within electronic or electro-mechanical manufacturing environments
Prior experience within the defence, military, aerospace, or electronics manufacturing sectors is highly desirable
Strong attention to detail, with a consistent ability to uphold high standards of delivery, quality, and accuracy
Competencies: Demonstrates good written and verbal communication skills
The candidate must be proficient in MS Office applications
Additional Information
SECURITY – All candidates must be in a position to obtain UK security clearance to SC level. Additional restrictions may apply on certain defence programmes. TPBN1_UKTJ
Key Account Manager in Southampton employer: STSdefence
As a leading employer in the Aerospace and Defence sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our production engineers benefit from a supportive work environment that prioritises professional development and offers unique opportunities for growth within our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to operational excellence and meaningful improvements in a dynamic industry.
