Italy Defense BD Lead – Autonomy & Aircraft Growth

Shield

Roma

On-site

EUR 70,000 - 110,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Job summary

Shield AI is seeking a high-performing Business Development Lead to drive defence market growth and customer engagement across Italy. You will represent Shield AI’s autonomy and aircraft portfolio, including V-BAT, X-BAT, and Hivemind software, in engagements, demonstrations, partnerships, and growth initiatives.

The role owns territory strategy, pipeline development, account growth, and opportunity execution from shaping to award, with a regional sales quota.

Qualifications

6+ years in business development, capture, sales, or related roles within defence, aerospace, or national security environments.
Experience identifying, shaping, and advancing complex opportunities with long sales cycles.
Strong executive presence with credibility among military, government, industry stakeholders.
Excellent communication, negotiation, stakeholder management, and collaboration skills.
Fluency in English and regional languages relevant to the market.

Responsibilities

Own and execute go-to-market strategy across assigned markets and align activities with growth priorities.
Build and grow a disciplined pipeline across autonomy, aircraft, ISR, and mission systems.
Lead end-to-end deal closure including account planning, shaping, negotiation, and contract close to meet quota.
Engage with senior military leaders, ministries of defence, and strategic partners in the territory.
Differentiate Shield AI’s portfolio by articulating mission outcomes and integration pathways.
Develop regional partnerships, consultants, and offset strategies to expand market access.
Coordinate cross-functional teams to support capture and delivery.
Maintain forecasting, pipeline management, and campaign reporting.