Business Development Manager Defence Sector

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Business Development Manager Defence Sector

Business Development Manager Defence Sector

Hybrid Portsmouth

Salary: £45,000–£70,000 per annum, plus bonus

We are working with a client who is a leader in delivering advanced technology solutions within the defence sector. Due to significant growth, they are expanding their Defence Sales team to capitalise on new opportunities and strengthen their position within the industry. They are seeking a Business Development Manager to support their strategic expansion and to develop new business prospects. This is an excellent opportunity to join their team. Our client is committed to innovation and showcasing the high quality solutions within the defence industry.

Compensation and Remuneration

Our client offers a competitive salary and commission structure, with targets transparently linked to base salary and outlined in the bonus scheme.

New hires benefit from phased targets to help establish their customer base. During this first month, training and induction are conducted onsite and full-time. Thereafter, a hybrid work model is available, typically three days in the office and two days working remotely per week. Attendance at networking events is encouraged to foster new opportunities and raise awareness of the business’s offerings.

The salary range is between £45,000 and £70,000 and is dependent upon experience.  Sales targets will be aligned with the base salary– establishing clear benchmarks for success. Given the longer sales cycles typical of the defence sector, it is reasonable to expect that on-target earnings (OTE) will increase substantially after the first year. The OTE arrangement is uncapped, affording substantial earning potential as the sales portfolio matures.

About the Role

As a Business Development Manager, the candidate will demonstrate expertise in networking and relationship-building within the defence and intelligence communities. The role combines sales activities with some account management responsibilities.

Key Duties Includes

• Prospecting for new business, expanding existing accounts, and maintaining relationships with key decision-makers.
• Collaborate closely with the Defence Sales Support Team to transition efforts into meaningful sales discussions.

Candidate Support

The position is also supported by a Head of Defence Sales and other accomplished business development professionals. The candidate will work with the internal technical teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet client requirements. While repeat business remains important, generating new sales with both new and existing customers is key to the success of this role.

Candidate Requirements

• To be successful, you’ll either be a former member of the forces who has transitioned into sales as a career or be someone who has gained experience in a similar sales role, working with defence customers.  Either way, you will thrive on leveraging your defence network and understanding of the defence tender and framework structures for sales success.
• Candidates must have demonstrable experience in Business Development or sales account management within the defence sector, preferably with an established pipeline of industry contacts, and a results-oriented approach.
• The ability to thrive under target-driven conditions, build robust sales pipelines, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Suitable backgrounds include former military service members who have transitioned to sales, or individuals with relevant sales experience serving defence clients.
• An understanding of defence tender processes and frameworks is essential for achieving sales objectives.
• Outstanding communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills are required, along with proactive and cooperative working styles.
• Security Check (SC) clearance is mandatory for this position, and arrangements for this can be made if necessary.

Strongly Preferred Requirements

• Former military (Ex-forces) member
• Defence sector experience – working with a “prime” contractor or supplier or with a SME within the defence sector

 Sales Team Overview

The Defence Sales team consists of seasoned experts with strong industry networks. They actively participate in networking opportunities, leveraging sector knowledge to drive growth.

Collaboration is central to their approach, with highly capable sales support staff and technical specialists working together to deliver practical solutions that exceed customer expectations and foster enduring partnerships.

 “A Great Place to Work”

Our client is proud to be accredited as a ‘Great Place to Work,’ based on feedback from their employees. They encourage authenticity in the workplace and value the diverse skills and experiences each individual brings. Our culture supports the contributions and innovative ideas of all team members.

Employee wellbeing is a priority, reflected in regular team events, awards, and charitable initiatives. Commitment to environmental responsibility has earned them,

Summary of Benefits

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional days
• Health plan scheme
• Upskilling apprenticeship opportunities
• Cycle to work initiative
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Staff discounts
• Social and wellbeing events
• Hybrid working (post-training period)
• Modern breakout room
• Kitchen and shower facilities

Our client believes that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. They are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

GWR Recruitment is a multi-disciplined recruitment agency based in the United Kingdom and operating across a range of industries.
We are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy, and in accordance with GDPR by applying you are granting us consent to process your data, contact you about the services we offer, and submit your CV for the role you have applied for.

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