Business Development Manager / Defence Sector (AWDO-P14175) in Portsmouth)

AWD online; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading provider in advanced technology solutions is seeking a Business Development Manager in the defence sector. This role involves developing sales pipelines, engaging with key stakeholders, and managing client relationships. The successful candidate will benefit from hybrid working and receive full training. Essential qualifications include proven experience in business development and stakeholder communication skills. This organisation also prioritises employee wellbeing and promotes a healthy work-life balance.

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 experience in business development within the defence sector.
• Experience in building and managing sales pipelines.
• Ability to build strong stakeholder relationships.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Expand existing accounts and maintain high-value client relationships.
• Build rapport with key decision-makers.

Skills

Business development

Sales pipeline management

Stakeholder engagement

Negotiation skills

Presentation skills

Collaboration skills

Job description

Business Development Manager / Defence Sector

An exciting opportunity for a driven Business Development Manager to join a leader in advanced technology solutions within the defence sector, developing new sales pipelines and building strong customer relationships.

If you’ve also worked in the following roles, we’d also like to hear from you: Business Development Executive, Defence Sales Consultant, Sales Manager, Client Relationship Manager, Key Account Manager.

We are also interested to hear from candidates who have experience working within the armed forces or defence environment and will also consider ex‑forces / veterans / ex‑service personnel.

FULL PRODUCT TRAINING PROVIDED

Salary: £45,000 to £70,000 per annum plus Uncapped Commission

Location: Hybrid Working / Portsmouth, Hampshire (3 days from the office / 2 days from home)

Job Type: Full‑Time, Permanent

Job Overview

Due to continued expansion within the defence market, the organisation is seeking a confident Business Development Manager to help strengthen its presence and identify new opportunities. As a Business Development Manager you will cultivate relationships within defence and intelligence communities, generating leads and progressing meaningful sales discussions in collaboration with technical teams. The role offers the chance to work with experienced sales professionals, contributing to long‑term strategic growth while shaping effective solutions for clients.

"A Great Place to Work". As a successful candidate you will join a company that is proud to be accredited as a "Great Place to Work," based on feedback from their employees. They encourage authenticity in the workplace, value the diverse skills and experiences each individual brings and their 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 consumed.

They promote a healthy work‑life balance through flexible hybrid working arrangements, convenient transport connections, complimentary staff parking, and secure bike storage.

Duties

• Prospecting and Lead Generation: Identify and pursue new business within the defence sector.
• Account Development: Expand existing accounts and maintain high‑value client relationships.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build rapport with key decision‑makers across defence and intelligence communities.
• Sales Pipeline Management: Develop robust pipelines and manage longer lead cycles effectively.
• Collaboration: Work closely with Defence Sales Support and technical teams to shape tailored solutions.
• Networking Activities: Attend events to raise awareness of the organisation’s capabilities.

Candidate Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience of business development or account management within the defence sector.
• A background in building and managing sales pipelines within target‑driven environments.
• Experience with defence tenders, frameworks and procurement processes.
• Ability to build strong relationships and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation, presentation and collaboration skills.
• Security Check (SC) clearance, or willingness for this to be arranged.

Desirable

• Former military (Ex‑forces) background.
• Experience working with defence prime contractors or SMEs supplying the sector.

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.

How to Apply

To be considered for this job vacancy, please submit your CV to our Recruitment Team who will review your details. CVs of job applicants meeting this requirement will be submitted to our Client for consideration. By submitting your job application to us you are hereby giving us your express consent to submit your details to our Client for this purpose.

Job Ref: AWDO-P14175