Business Developer Manager - Defence Sector

GWR Recruitment Ltd; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency in Portsmouth is seeking a Business Development Manager to drive growth in the defence sector. This role combines sales with account management, focusing on building relationships and generating new business. Candidates should have proven experience and established contacts within the defence industry. The position supports hybrid work post-training and offers a range of benefits including 25 days of holiday, health benefits, and employee assistance programs.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Health plan scheme

Upskilling apprenticeship opportunities

Cycle to work initiative

Employee Assistance Programme

Social and wellbeing events

Hybrid working post-training

Qualifications

• Proven business development or sales account management experience in the defence sector.
• Established industry contacts and ability to thrive under target-driven conditions.
• Understanding of defence tender processes and frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Prospect for new business and expand existing accounts.
• Maintain relationships with key decision-makers.
• Collaborate with Defence Sales Support Team for meaningful sales discussions.

Skills

Networking

Relationship-building

Sales pipeline management

Negotiation

Collaboration

Job description

Compensation and Remuneration

Your salary will reflect your experience, which will be discussed during the recruitment process. Sales targets are aligned with your 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 your first year. The OTE arrangement is uncapped, affording substantial earning potential as you develop your sales portfolio. New hires benefit from phased targets to help establish their customer base. During the 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.

About the Role

As a Business Development Manager, you 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 include prospecting for new business, expanding existing accounts, and maintaining relationships with key decision‑makers. You will collaborate closely with the Defence Sales Support Team, ensuring you can dedicate your efforts to meaningful sales discussions while administrative support is provided. The position is also supported by a Head of Defence Sales and other accomplished business development professionals. You will cooperate with 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

Candidates should possess proven experience in business development or sales account management within the defence sector, established industry contacts, and a results‑oriented approach. Success in this role requires 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.

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. The team is enthusiastic about attracting new talent to further its objectives.

“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 recognition, including status as a net positive business, producing more energy than they consume.

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.