Sales Director - Defence

​A high-growth, UK-based advanced manufacturing business is building a critical domestic capability in battery cell production, supporting defence, energy, and industrial electrification.As part of its next phase of growth, the organisation is seeking a Commercial Director (Defence) to establish and lead its defence commercial function. This is a foundational role with significant influence over strategy, customer engagement, and long-term revenue generation.The RoleReporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, you will own and develop key defence accounts, guiding them through long, high-value sales cycles and towards commercial agreements.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn and develop 5–8 priority defence accountsProgress opportunities through complex procurement processesMap stakeholders and decision-makersDrive accounts towards paid evaluation and agreementsBuild relationships with defence primes and integratorsProvide market intelligencePrepare accounts for negotiationExperience RequiredEssential10+ years in defence or complex B2G/B2B environmentsExperience with MOD or defence primesTrack record closing 1m+ dealsExperience with RFIs, RFQsAbility to build relationships from scratchDesirableBattery, energy, or manufacturing experienceScale-up experienceSecurity clearance (SC/DV)Government networksKey SkillsStakeholder managementCommercial disciplineStrong communicationAbility to manage long sales cyclesPolitical awarenessSelf-sufficient working stylePersonal AttributesPersistent and resilientCalm under pressureProactive and decisiveEntrepreneurial mindset.Discipline(s): Renewable Energy, OEM and EngineeringJob type: Permanent