At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth in global defence markets and manage key customer accounts.
- Company: Globally recognised engineering firm focused on advanced sensing solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work flexibility, and strong focus on employee development.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment at the forefront of technology.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and offers real career progression.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in defence sales or business development with strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 50000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a globally recognised engineering and technology business specialising in advanced sensing solutions. Operating across highly regulated and innovative sectors, the company delivers cutting‑edge products used in critical environments worldwide.
With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and employee development, the business offers a collaborative and supportive culture where individuals are encouraged to grow and make a real impact.
Working Hours
Full‑time, 39 hours per week
Job Description
The Business Development Manager will play a key role in driving growth across global defence land markets. This position blends new business development with strategic account management, focusing on identifying, shaping, and securing opportunities.
As a Business Development Manager, you will engage with OEMs, system integrators, and defence organisations, building a strong pipeline and leading opportunities from early engagement through to contract award. You will also be responsible for growing existing accounts, identifying upsell opportunities, and strengthening long‑term client relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Identifying and developing new defence land opportunities
- Building and managing a robust sales pipeline
- Leading bid/no‑bid decisions and capture planning
- Managing and growing key customer accounts
- Supporting commercial negotiations and pricing strategies
- Providing market intelligence and supporting growth strategy
- Representing the business at industry events
Skills & Experience
- Minimum 5+ years experience in defence sales, business development, or account management
- Strong knowledge of defence procurement processes and contracting structures
- Experience within land systems, vehicles, or related environments
- Proven track record in winning new business and growing accounts
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and influencing skills
Desirable
- Experience working with OEMs or Tier 1 defence organisations
- Technical background in engineered or safety‑critical systems
- International sales exposure
Why Should You Apply?
This opportunity offers the chance to work in a high‑impact role within a growing, forward‑thinking organisation. You will be part of a business that values innovation, invests in its people, and operates at the forefront of technology in critical global industries.
If you’re an experienced Business Development Manager looking for a role that combines strategic influence, international exposure, and genuine career progression, this is an excellent next step.
Only sole UK nationals eligible due to security clearance requirements.
Business Development Manager employer: Theo James Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Theo James Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events and connect with professionals in the defence sector. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive in your approach. Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out to companies you admire directly. Express your interest and see if they have any upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges in the defence market. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in defence sales and account management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Be specific about your experience with OEMs and defence organisations.
Showcase Your Skills: We want to see your negotiation and influencing skills in action! Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully managed key accounts and driven growth in challenging environments.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our innovative team at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Theo James Recruitment
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the defence land markets. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their growth strategy.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully identified and secured new business opportunities in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting your achievements in growing accounts and managing client relationships.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your excellent stakeholder engagement skills by discussing how you've built relationships with OEMs or defence organisations. Be ready to share strategies you've used to influence decision-makers and negotiate effectively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the company's vision and culture. Inquire about their approach to sustainability and innovation, and how they support employee development. This will reflect your alignment with their values and your eagerness to contribute.