Defense & Aerospace Business Development Manager – MEA

AW Connect; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 457,000 - 547,000; Full time

Job summary

AW Connect in Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Business Development Manager to drive growth in the defense, security and aerospace sectors across the Middle East. You will identify, develop and close opportunities in naval, aerospace, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure domains.

You will manage stakeholder relationships with defense ministries, OEMs and government entities, lead proposals and bids, and foster strategic partnerships to deliver integrated defense solutions.

Qualifications

• Degree required in engineering or related field with relevant master preferred.
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience in business development, defense, aerospace or maritime sectors.
• Strong network within Middle Eastern defense and government sectors.
• Proven track record in securing large contracts and government deals.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation and proposal writing skills.
• Ability to travel across the region as needed.

Responsibilities

• Market Expansion & Strategy: Identify and pursue new opportunities aligned with defense capabilities (naval, aerospace, cybersecurity, and system integration).
• Develop regional business development plan with KPIs and growth targets.
• Monitor defense budgets, tenders, and policy shifts within GCC and broader MENA region.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Build relationships with defense ministries, government entities, OEMs and private contractors.
• Lead the preparation of proposals RFIs/RFQs and commercial offers with technical and legal teams.
• Negotiate contracts and ensure alignment with internal policies and market standards.
• Partnerships & Alliances: Develop strategic partnerships to deliver integrated solutions; represent at defense exhibitions and forums.
• Market Intelligence & Reporting: Maintain market intelligence, competitor analysis, and provide monthly sales forecasts.

Skills

System Engineering

Naval Support

Aerospace & Space

Cyber & Infrastructure

Strategic Partnerships

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Business or related field

Job description

AW Connect in Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Business Development Manager to drive growth in the defense, security and aerospace sectors across the Middle East. You will identify, develop and close opportunities in naval, aerospace, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure domains.

You will manage stakeholder relationships with defense ministries, OEMs and government entities, lead proposals and bids, and foster strategic partnerships to deliver integrated defense solutions.