Our client is seeking an experienced and driven Business Development Manager to spearhead growth in the defense, security and aerospace sector across the Middle East. This role is critical to identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities in naval, aerospace, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure domains. The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of defense procurement cycles, excellent stakeholder management skills, and a passion for innovation in engineering and certification services.
Industry: Defense & Engineering
Focus Region: Middle East
Engagement Type: Integrated Defense Solutions
Salary: AED 45,000 per month
Key Capabilities:
System Engineering: Architecture, integration, testing, and configuration across platforms
Naval Support: Combat systems, safety engineering, HMI, EMC, logistics
Aerospace & Space: Ground systems, remote sensing, onboard equipment
Cyber & Infrastructure: Cybersecurity, homeland security, infrastructure resilience
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations in composite materials and maritime certification
Key Responsibilities
Market Expansion & Strategy
Identify and pursue new business opportunities aligned with the company's defense capabilities: naval engineering, aerospace & space, cybersecurity, and system integration.
Develop and execute a regional business development plan with clear KPIs and growth targets.
Monitor defense budgets, tenders, and policy shifts within Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and broader MENA region.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Build and nurture relationships with defense ministries, government entities, OEMs, and private contractors.
Act as a trusted advisor, presenting the company's solutions with a deep understanding of client challenges and operational environments.
Proposal & Bid Management
Lead the preparation of proposals, RFIs/RFQs, and commercial offers in collaboration with technical and legal teams.
Negotiate contracts and ensure alignment with internal policies and market standards.
Partnerships & Alliances
Support the development and management of strategic partnerships to co-develop and deliver integrated solutions.
Represent the company at defense exhibitions, industry forums, and regional events.
Market Intelligence & Reporting
Maintain up-to-date market intelligence, competitor analysis, and risk assessments.
Provide monthly sales forecasts and strategic insights to the regional leadership team.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field.
Minimum 7–10 years of experience in business development, preferably in the defense, aerospace, or maritime sectors.
Strong network within Middle Eastern defense and government sectors.
Proven track record in securing large-scale contracts and government deals.
Excellent negotiation, presentation, and proposal writing skills.
Ability to travel across the region as needed.
Preferred Skills
Familiarity with naval combat systems, space programs, cybersecurity, etc.
Arabic language skills a plus.
Experience with international engineering/consultancy firms is highly desirable.