Business Development Director, Joint Strike Missiles

Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace Inc•Alexandria, VA

5d•$148,000 - $222,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Kongsberg US seeks a Director of Business Development to support the growth of its Missile Product portfolio in the US, specifically focused on the Joint Strike Missile (JSM). This candidate will be the primary interface between Kongsberg US and Kongsberg Norway for all current and future business and government customers in the US and FMS markets. The role requires fostering and growing customer relationships, including engagements at senior levels of the US military and Congressional offices. A deep understanding of the US and global air-launched strike missile market is essential, as is maintaining close communication with Kongsberg counterparts in Norway. Periodic visits and briefings to foreign diplomats or their Defense, Air, or Naval Attaches will also be required. The Joint Strike Missile BD Director will serve as the primary link between Kongsberg’s Missile and Aerostructures Division campaigns and operations in Norway and the US market. While primarily focused on the Joint Strike Missile product line, this position will also support the broader missile portfolio.

Requirements

Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development within the defense aerospace industry, with a focus on military systems and solutions.
Possession of a current, or eligibility/ability to obtain, a US government SECRET clearance.
Prior military experience, preferably as a Naval or Air Force TACAIR pilot with a background in requirements/budgeting development and/or acquisition of weapons systems.
Proven ability to build Senior level (GO/FO, SES) relationships.
Ability to engage with and coordinate messaging with Senior Government and Industry Partner organizations, building long-term client relationships.
Deep understanding of the defense market, particularly in missile, aerospace, and unmanned systems sectors, and US government procurement processes (PPB&E), including current trends, technologies, and regulatory environment.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate at all levels.
Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing and motivating high-performance teams under fluid, rapidly changing environments.
Ability to work individually and as part of a cross-cutting, multi-function team.
Understanding of and experience in the use of business development and capture processes (e.g., Shipley, etc.).
Bachelor’s degree.
Must be a U.S. Person within the meaning of United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) governing export control.

Nice To Haves

At least 4 years working at the Senior / Executive level.
Active SECRET or higher clearance.
Advanced degree (MA, MBA, MSc).

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and execute a comprehensive business development strategy to maximize efficient growth and profitability within the US, reporting to the Kongsberg US Vice President for Business Development & Strategy and coordinating with Kongsberg (Norway) Missile & Aerostructures Division Vice President for Business Development.
Maintain strong relationships with all current and prospective US customers, coordinating Quarterly Update/Status meetings.
Manage relationships with US Air Force and US Navy aviation training commands to ensure operator/strike mission planner knowledge of weapon capabilities and CONOPs are integrated into curriculum and training.
Participate in and facilitate relevant Program Management Reviews.
Grow relationships within the US Air Force, US Navy, and US Marine Corps aviation communities to ensure visibility and growth of Joint Strike Missiles, while elevating existing customer relationships and developing new ones.
Manage recurring Trade Show participation, ensuring participation in high-payoff venues and relevant displays.
Support international capture efforts by briefing Foreign Embassy staffs on capabilities and program developments.
Identify and pursue new business opportunities, commercial and military, including strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and contract acquisitions.
Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies to inform strategic decisions.
Forge and maintain strategic partnerships, alliances, and collaborations with key stakeholders.
Drive sales initiatives and revenue growth by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, contracts, and programs.
Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Participate in the full opportunity lifecycle process, from identification through proposal delivery and award.
Collaborate with the Kongsberg US Business Development team to identify cross-collaboration areas and contribute to the overarching US Strategic Plan.
Maintain awareness of new technology and platform development projects, communicating efforts to US customers and industry partners.
Demonstrate a hands-on attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
Exhibit self-starter qualities.
Function as a team player in dynamic teams and matrix-style project organizations.
Act as a problem solver, identifying and resolving issues.
Maintain a collaborative, collegial, and enthusiastic attitude towards work.
Be willing to travel, including internationally, and undergo training.
Be willing to embrace Kongsberg’s corporate values of collaboration, determination, reliability, and innovation.