BD Manager

Brightsmith partners with an innovative technology business operating in the defence and national security sector. The business develops technology for defence, aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy applications and is expanding its international presence across global markets.

• Develop and execute the international business development and export strategy;
• Identify and secure new business opportunities across global defence and government markets;
• Build and maintain senior relationships with government, military, OEM, and industry stakeholders;
• Lead strategic capture activities from opportunity identification through contract award;
• Develop sovereign industrial partnerships and support market access strategies in priority regions;
• Align customer needs with technology roadmaps by working with engineering, programme, and executive teams;
• Represent the business at customer engagements, industry events, and international exhibitions;
• Mentor and develop a high-performing commercial team as the business scales.

• Proven success delivering international business development or sales growth in the defence, aerospace, or national security sectors;
• Experience winning complex, high-value government or defence programmes;
• Strong understanding of export markets, government procurement, and strategic partnerships;
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders across industry, military, and government organisations;
• Commercial leadership experience in complex technology or engineering environments;
• Experience developing long-term growth strategies and leading opportunities through the full sales lifecycle;
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills;
• Willingness to travel internationally as required.

• Majority of the time needs to be spent in Europe.