Strategic Business Development Manager - Defense Markets #0209

Keller Executive Search; Washington (District of Columbia); Remote; USD 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking a Strategic Business Development Manager to drive expansion into the defense marketplace. This role requires a proactive approach to revenue generation and market development, with potential for significant growth within the defense sector. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in DOD sales and strong networking skills to establish relationships in the Department of Defense landscape. With a remote work arrangement, this position offers a competitive base salary with unlimited earning potential through commissions.

Benefits

Flexible Remote Work

Company-sponsored travel to DOD facilities

Unlimited earning potential through commission

Qualifications

• Proven DOD sales experience and established networking ability.
• Strong execution-focused approach and 'hunter' mentality.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and government sales processes.

Responsibilities

• Drive proactive growth initiatives and market penetration strategies.
• Create the necessary infrastructure for successful product introductions.
• Evolve from individual contributor to team leadership role.

Skills

Revenue Generation

Market Development

Relationship Building

Networking Skills

Strategic Business Development

Education

Experience with Defense Contractors

Understanding of Drone/Aerospace Technology

Job description

We are partnering with an established technology leader to identify a dynamic Strategic Business Development Manager who will drive their expansion into the defense marketplace. Our client is a Series B-funded organization with over a decade of proven success in public safety applications, now positioned to leverage their regulatory advantages in tethered drone technology for Department of Defense opportunities.

This role presents a unique opportunity to architect a new business vertical from inception, with defense-focused product development targeted for completion within 12-18 months. The successful candidate will enjoy significant autonomy in executing growth strategies while establishing the framework for future organizational expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Development: Drive proactive growth initiatives and market penetration strategies (beyond transactional sales)
• Revenue Generation: Maximize uncapped commission potential through new client acquisition and business expansion
• Market Development: Establish relationships and identify opportunities throughout the DOD landscape from the ground up
• Foundation Setting: Create the infrastructure necessary for successful defense-oriented product introductions
• Relationship Building: Utilize existing DOD connections while cultivating new strategic alliances
• Team Building: Evolve from individual contributor to team leadership role following initial 6-month establishment phase

• Execution-focused approach: Demonstrated ability to build business operations from inception
• Proven DOD sales experience: Verifiable success record within the defense marketplace
• Established network/contacts: Active relationships within Department of Defense ecosystem
• "Hunter" mentality: Natural ability to identify and develop new business opportunities from scratch
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills: Proven capability in stakeholder management
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with defense contractors: Familiarity with government sales processes and procurement cycles
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements: Understanding of compliance standards within the defense sector
• Understanding of drone/aerospace technology: Technical background in relevant technologies

• Growth Opportunity: Lead and develop the DOD business unit as the market expands
• Established Platform: Join a profitable, Series B-funded organization with significant regulatory positioning
• Competitive Compensation: Approximately $200,000 base salary with unlimited earning potential through commission and bonus structures
• Travel: Regular travel to DOD facilities and Washington DC area (fully company-sponsored)
• Flexibility: Complete remote work arrangement (US-based candidates)

Company Culture & Growth

Our client offers the stability of an 11-year-old established company combined with the growth potential of expanding into new markets. With 78% of business in the US and current limited DOD presence with Air Force, Army, Customs, and DHS, there's significant opportunity for market penetration and career advancement.

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