At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead defence commercial operations and develop key accounts for a high-growth manufacturing business.
- Company: Innovative UK-based company focused on battery cell production for defence and energy sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to shape strategy, and influence long-term revenue generation.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant influence and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in a growing industry and make a real impact on national capabilities.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in defence or complex B2G/B2B environments with a proven track record.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
A high-growth, UK-based advanced manufacturing business is building a critical domestic capability in battery cell production, supporting defence, energy, and industrial electrification. As part of its next phase of growth, the organisation is seeking a Commercial Director (Defence) to establish and lead its defence commercial function. This is a foundational role with significant influence over strategy, customer engagement, and long-term revenue generation.
Reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, you will own and develop key defence accounts, guiding them through long, high-value sales cycles and towards commercial agreements.
Key Responsibilities- Own and develop 5–8 priority defence accounts
- Progress opportunities through complex procurement processes
- Map stakeholders and decision-makers
- Drive accounts towards paid evaluation and agreements
- Build relationships with defence primes and integrators
- Provide market intelligence
- Prepare accounts for negotiation
- 10+ years in defence or complex B2G/B2B environments
- Experience with MOD or defence primes
- Track record closing £1m+ deals
- Experience with RFIs, RFQs
- Ability to build relationships from scratch
- Battery, energy, or manufacturing experience
- Scale-up experience
- Security clearance (SC/DV)
- Government networks
- Stakeholder management
- Commercial discipline
- Strong communication
- Ability to manage long sales cycles
- Political awareness
- Self-sufficient working style
- Persistent and resilient
- Calm under pressure
- Proactive and decisive
- Entrepreneurial mindset
For a confidential discussion please apply.
Director Commercial Operations employer: The Green Recruitment Company
Join a pioneering UK-based advanced manufacturing business that is at the forefront of battery cell production for defence and energy sectors. As a Commercial Director, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that values innovation and collaboration, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. The company offers competitive benefits and a unique chance to make a significant impact in a critical industry, all while being part of a supportive team dedicated to excellence.
Contact Details:
The Green Recruitment Company Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Commercial Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its competitors, understand their products, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Practise common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace Director Commercial Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Commercial Director in Defence. Highlight your experience in defence or complex B2G/B2B environments, and don’t forget to showcase those impressive £1m+ deals you've closed!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this foundational role. Mention your ability to build relationships from scratch and how you can drive accounts towards paid evaluations.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on your track record with MOD or defence primes. If you have any background in battery, energy, or manufacturing, make sure to include that too—it could set you apart!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you one step closer to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Green Recruitment Company
✨Know Your Defence Landscape
Make sure you brush up on the current trends and challenges in the defence sector. Understanding the key players, including MOD and defence primes, will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Sales Success
Prepare to discuss specific examples of closing high-value deals, especially those over £1m. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements in complex B2G/B2B environments.
✨Map Out Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to identify and engage with key stakeholders. Bring examples of how you've successfully navigated complex procurement processes and built relationships from scratch, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Exude Confidence and Resilience
Given the nature of long sales cycles and high-pressure situations, it's important to convey your calmness and persistence. Share stories that illustrate your proactive approach and entrepreneurial mindset, showing that you can thrive in challenging environments.
