Business Development Director, Surveillance and Aerospace

Saab

24d • Onsite

About The Position

Saab, Inc. is seeking a dynamic and experienced Business Development Director to develop and execute strategic market and product line business plans to support sales and growth in our Surveillance & Aerospace divisions. This role is responsible for identifying volume and strategic customers, developing partnerships, and supporting Saab’s long-term business strategy. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical, strategic, and relationship-building skills to identify new opportunities, shape customer requirements, and build Saab’s value proposition across key markets. This position will be located out of our Washington, D.C. office.

Requirements

• 10+ years of demonstrated experience developing partnerships/collaboration with top tier Aerospace or Defense primes
• Experience developing partnerships/collaboration with emerging tech companies in surveillance and/or aerospace
• Track record with government agencies developing emerging technologies and success acquiring development funding
• Demonstrated expertise in emerging aircraft and surveillance technologies
• Experience with the defense acquisition process and defense supply chains
• Expertise in M&A and/or strategic partnerships to capture competitive advantages and market share expansion
• Significant expertise in developing technology/concepts into long-term production programs; including development of markets or customers
• Ability to develop new lead generation and new business opportunities through supplier, government, industry, current or potential customer engagements
• An active Top Secret security clearance is required for consideration
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
• As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Thought leadership, idea generation with end user/customers – joint requirements development to solve problems
• Strategy development, economic/financial acumen, investment business case development
• Global experience influencing and effectively communicating in cross-function/matrix teams
• In tune with rapidly changing market needs/dynamics – familiar with major aerospace and surveillance programs as a domain expert
• Deep knowledge of defense acquisition processes with active customer relationships
• Previous operational experience desired, with ability to develop conops for multiple use cases

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic market and product line business plans to drive growth in our Defense & Aerospace segments.
• Analyze market data, identify trends, and assess the competitive landscape to inform strategic direction.
• Lead the identification, development, and execution of strategic partnerships with top-tier Aerospace and Defense primes, emerging technology firms, and government agencies—driving collaboration on next-generation aircraft, surveillance systems, and advanced concepts while securing development funding and guiding programs through the defense acquisition lifecycle.
• Shape long-term growth through technology commercialization and strategic transactions aligned with Saab’s product portfolio and technology investments, including M&A and partnership initiatives, by transforming emerging technologies into scalable production programs, expanding market share, strengthening supply chain positions, and building new customer and market opportunities.
• Define and communicate Saab’s value proposition to customers and partners.
• Build and manage relationships with key stakeholders to influence customer requirements and future opportunities.
• Support capture efforts and proposal development by identifying deal challenges, shaping win strategies, and integrating compelling themes.
• Conduct partnership, make-vs.-buy, and joint venture analyses to support strategic decision-making.

Benefits

• Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.
• Highlights include:
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays
• 401(k) with employer contributions
• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance
• Wellness and employee assistance resources
• Employee stock purchase opportunities
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees