Sales Director

Austin Fraser; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Sales Director - Aerospace & Defence
Bournemouth | Full-Time | Competitive Salary + Bonus + Executive Benefits

A long-established and highly respected UK aerospace and defence manufacturer is seeking a commercially focused and strategic Sales Director to lead its commercial function. With a legacy of delivering complex engineering solutions across metallics, composites, and aircraft structures, the business is positioned for continued growth and diversification across key sectors.

This is a high-impact, senior leadership role based at the company's Bournemouth site, offering the opportunity to drive long-term customer relationships, shape commercial strategy, and lead a high-performing sales team.

The Role:

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Sales Director will take ownership of all sales activity—from strategic planning and pipeline growth to team leadership and key account development. You will work cross-functionally with technical and operations teams to ensure seamless delivery and strong customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead and manage the sales function to achieve revenue growth, profitability, and market expansion
2. Develop and execute strategic sales plans aligned with company objectives
3. Build and maintain high-level relationships with aerospace and defence clients
4. Promote a customer-first mindset, with a culture of accountability and results
5. Leverage digitalisation and automation to enhance sales process efficiency
6. Oversee contract negotiations, proposals, and commercial compliance
7. Represent the company at industry events and customer meetings
8. Collaborate internally to ensure alignment of customer expectations and project delivery
9. Drive continuous improvement and innovation in sales practices

What You'll Bring:

1. Senior-level experience in aerospace, defence, or advanced manufacturing sales
2. Background in metallics, composites, or aircraft structures preferred
3. Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and grow high-performing teams
4. Excellent negotiation and strategic account management experience
5. High level of commercial acumen and a data-driven approach to forecasting
6. Comfortable operating both at board level and on the ground with customers and teams
7. Willingness to be based onsite in Bournemouth and travel to customer locations as required

What's on Offer:

1. Competitive salary with performance-based bonus
2. Executive benefits and pension package
3. 25 days holiday + bank holidays
4. A senior leadership role in a well-established and growing UK business
5. A collaborative, innovation-driven culture where your input shapes the future

Interested?
If you're a strategic, customer-focused Sales Director ready to lead growth in a dynamic aerospace environment, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now for a confidential conversation.