Head of Sales - Naval Defence

STR Group; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based naval defence company is seeking an experienced Head of Sales to lead their naval business. This senior leadership role involves shaping sales strategies, managing a high-performing team, and implementing growth strategies. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the defence sector, particularly in naval environments, with proven skills in leadership, commercial acumen, and customer focus. This is a fantastic opportunity to drive sales performance and contribute to defence operations globally.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in the defence sector, particularly in naval environments.
• Strong track record managing high-performing teams.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational activities of the naval sales business.
• Develop and implement sales strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers and partners.

Skills

Leadership skills

Commercial acumen

Customer focus

Strategic thinking

Collaboration skills

Job description

About the Role

A leading UK-based naval defence company is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Sales to lead their naval business in the UK and international markets. The organisation delivers critical solutions to defence clients globally and is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy.

This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving business performance, shaping sales strategy, and building a high-performing team in a fast-paced and technically complex environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the operational activities of the naval sales business, including planning, goal-setting, and monitoring performance to meet targets.
• Develop and implement sales strategies, campaigns, and activities aligned with business objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers and partners, understanding their requirements and providing tailored solutions.
• Manage the sales pipeline, forecasting, and resource allocation to drive performance.
• Coach, mentor, and develop the sales team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Analyse market trends, customer feedback, and competitor activity to inform strategic decisions.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations across all sales operations.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience developing and executing growth strategies in the defence sector, ideally in naval or marine environments.
• Knowledge of defence systems, shipbuilding, or related naval equipment, preferably within a NATO context.
• Proven track record leading high-performing teams and driving new sales models.
• Strong commercial acumen, customer focus, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Effective leadership, collaboration, and communication skills in a global or matrixed organisation.
• Proactive, results-driven, and committed to continuous improvement and innovation.

Why Apply?

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead sales for a market-leading naval defence company, shaping strategy, developing talent, and delivering solutions that support defence operations worldwide.

To Apply

Applications are being managed by a recruitment partner. Please submit your CV and a short covering statement highlighting relevant experience.