Business Development Manager (Defense and Drone Industry)

Destinus; City Of London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to drive opportunities in the defense sector. You will leverage your deep understanding of the UK defense ecosystem and government procurement to lead bids and develop strategic partnerships. The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience in business development within this sector. Join us to shape the future of drone technology and influence high-stakes decision-making.

Benefits

Work on cutting-edge projects

Collaboration with top engineers

Experience in a rapidly expanding company

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in business development within the defense sector.
• Proven experience in the drone industry or government procurement.
• Strong knowledge of the UK defense ecosystem including procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and manage new business opportunities in the UK defense sector.
• Lead bid preparation and submission ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Develop go-to-market strategies to position company solutions.

Skills

Business development

Sales

Procurement

Communication skills

Networking skills

Education

Background in engineering, business, or related field

Job description

Overview

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing aerospace and defense with cutting-edge drone technology. To expand our footprint in the UK defense sector, we are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Business Development Manager with deep knowledge of the UK defense ecosystem, experience in government procurement or the drone industry, and a strong track record in bid formulation and contract management.

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

What You’ll Do

• Identify, develop, and manage new business opportunities within the UK defense sector, with a focus on drone technology and government procurement.
• Lead the preparation and submission of bids, proposals, and tenders, ensuring compliance with industry and regulatory standards.
• Develop and execute go-to-market strategies to position Destinus solutions effectively within the defense ecosystem.
• Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and procurement frameworks to identify potential business opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, legal, and finance) to ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Negotiate and manage contracts, securing favorable terms and ensuring successful project execution.

Must-Have

• At least 5 years of experience in business development, sales, or procurement within the defense sector (mandatory).
• Proven experience in the drone industry or government procurement is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of the UK defense ecosystem, including procurement processes and key stakeholders.
• Extroverted personality with excellent communication and networking skills.
• Strong business acumen and ability to identify strategic opportunities.
• Native English speaker with excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Willingness to travel within UK and internationally to represent Destinus at key events.

Nice-to-Have

• Experience working with government tenders, procurement processes, or defense technology sales.
• Background in engineering, business, or a related field.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements in the defense industry.

Who You Are

You are not just a Business Development Manager— an extroverted, strategic thinker with a passion for building high-value partnerships and navigating the complex landscape of defense procurement. You have a deep understanding of the defense ecosystem and know how to navigate procurement processes, build influential relationships, and secure high-value contracts. You excel in high-stakes negotiations, thrive in fast-paced environments, and are driven by the challenge of shaping the future of aerospace and defense technology.

If you want to be at the forefront of UAV defense solutions, working alongside top industry experts and government agencies, we want you on our team.

Why Join Us?

• The Thrill of the Future – Work on cutting-edge projects that redefine aerospace.
• Global Innovation Hub – Collaborate with top engineers from all over the world.
• Fast-Paced & High-Growth – Experience the rush of working in a rapidly expanding company.
• Real Impact – Your work won’t be theoretical—it will shape the future of flight.

Destinus is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity in our companies and our teams and do not discriminate based on age, race, religion, color, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status.

Destinus – Challenge the limits of time, space, and human potential.