Senior BD Director, Unmanned & AI Solutions

InvestedintheMission; Herndon (VA); Hybrid; USD 175,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment is seeking a Director of Business Development to identify and present technology solutions addressing US Navy operational gaps with unmanned systems, counter-UAS, and autonomous AI capabilities. The role supports capture strategy, engages customer offices, and aligns with AV staff post-award.

The candidate will lead market research, build trusted relationships, and develop win strategies for major opportunities, leveraging Salesforce CRM and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physical Science, Business, or relevant discipline required.
• 14-20 years of relevant experience (including military) preferred.
• US Navy or Coast Guard experience preferred.
• Understanding of FAR/DFARS, OTAs, and Middle-Tier Acquisition is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Builds trusted relationships across assigned customer organizations at all levels and facilitates the same for others within AeroVironment.
• Identifies and wins new business opportunities for AeroVironment while meeting the needs of assigned customers.
• Represents AeroVironment to the customer organization and strengthens the company’s reputation within the customer organization.
• Uses Salesforce CRM for capture processes.
• Creates capture plans with compelling win strategies for major sales opportunities.
• Conducts market research to assess size and potential value of an opportunity.
• Conducts competitive assessments to understand strengths and weaknesses of AeroVironment solutions.
• Supports monthly forecast reviews and annual strategic planning process.
• Identifies funding sources, contract vehicles, influencers, and decision-makers with prospective customer organizations and engages to shape requirements for AV solutions.

Skills

Strong communication

Negotiation

Strategic planning

Interpersonal skills

Leadership

Travel 25-50%

Teamwork

MS Office

Sales mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

AeroVironment is seeking a Director of Business Development to identify and present technology solutions addressing US Navy operational gaps with unmanned systems, counter-UAS, and autonomous AI capabilities. The role supports capture strategy, engages customer offices, and aligns with AV staff post-award.

The candidate will lead market research, build trusted relationships, and develop win strategies for major opportunities, leveraging Salesforce CRM and cross-functional collaboration.