Business Development Manager

Michael Page (UK); Hart; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading electronics manufacturing company is seeking a Business Development Manager to drive growth in the defence sector. You will engage with major prime contractors and develop business strategies to enhance STI's position in the UK and international market. The ideal candidate has experience in business development within defence or aerospace, strong communication skills, and a customer-first mindset. Competitive salary and career growth opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in business development in the defence or aerospace sector.
• Experience with prime contractors like BAE Systems or Thales.
• Strong understanding of defence procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure new business opportunities within the defence sector.
• Develop a targeted business development strategy.
• Maintain relationships with procurement and engineering teams.

Skills

Business development

Strategic account management

Excellent communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

Solution-oriented approach

Job description

Overview

• Be part of a company at the forefront of defense electronics manufacturing
• Work in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment with a passionate team

About Our Client

Surface Technology International (STI) is a leading provider of electronics design and manufacturing services, specialising in high-reliability applications for the defence, aerospace, industrial, and medical sectors. With a heritage of over 30 years, STI is trusted by global customers to deliver quality, innovation, and excellence. Their capabilities span the entire product lifecycle - from design and prototyping to full-scale production and logistics - making them a true partner in mission-critical manufacturing.

Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Business Development Manager to spearhead growth in the defence sector, with a particular focus on engaging and expanding partnerships with major prime contractors. This is a strategic role, integral to STI's vision of becoming a key partner in the UK and international defence supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Identify, engage, and secure new business opportunities within the defence sector, particularly with Tier 1 defence primes and key integrators.
• Develop and execute a targeted business development strategy to support STI's growth objectives in defence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with procurement, engineering, and program teams at target accounts.
• Drive early engagement on new programs, positioning STI as a trusted manufacturing partner from concept through to production.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders including engineering, operations, and program management to ensure alignment with customer needs.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and government defence initiatives to identify emerging opportunities.
• Represent STI at trade shows, industry forums, and customer events to build brand presence and credibility.
• Lead bid and proposal development in coordination with the commercial and technical teams.

The Successful Applicant

• Proven track record of business development or strategic account management in the defence or aerospace sector.
• Experience working with or for prime contractors (e.g., BAE Systems, Leonardo, Thales, MBDA, Raytheon, etc.)
• Strong understanding of defence procurement processes, industry compliance, and program lifecycles.
• Background in electronics manufacturing, systems integration, or advanced engineering services is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Commercially astute with a strong customer-first mindset and solution-oriented approach.
• Ability to travel across the UK as required.

Whats on Offer

On offer is a competitive base salary and package but also a platform to grow and develop your career further!