Commercial Director – Defence
The Opportunity
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 Role
Reporting 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 Responsibilities
– Own and develop 5–8 priority defence accounts
– Progress opportunities through complex procurement processes
– Map stakeholders and decision-makers
– Drive accounts towards paid evaluation and agreements
– Build relationships with defence primes and integrators
– Provide market intelligence
– Prepare accounts for negotiation
Experience Required
Essential
– 10+ years in defence or complex B2G/B2B environments
– Experience with MOD or defence primes
– Track record closing £1m+ deals
– Experience with RFIs, RFQs
– Ability to build relationships from scratch
Desirable
– Battery, energy, or manufacturing experience
– Scale-up experience
– Security clearance (SC/DV)
– Government networks
Key Skills
– Stakeholder management
– Commercial discipline
– Strong communication
– Ability to manage long sales cycles
– Political awareness
– Self-sufficient working style
Personal Attributes
– Persistent and resilient
– Calm under pressure
– Proactive and decisive
– Entrepreneurial mindset.
For a confidential discussion please apply.
…