Job Title: Business Development Manager (Defense)

Location: Dalgety Bay, Scotland

Reporting to: Commercial Director

About us

Headquartered in Dalgety Bay, Scotland, with a high-volume manufacturing facility in Arizona, USA, PowerPhotonic is a global leader in precision micro-optics for laser applications. The company designs and manufactures complex freeform optics that are essential to enhancing the performance and reliability of laser systems used in demanding sectors such as aerospace, defense, and security.

The opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Business Development & Sales Manager to drive sales and business growth within defense & security markets. This is a crucial role for a results-driven individual who thrives on building long-term, high-value relationships with key government and military stakeholders. You will be responsible for defining and executing a sales strategy, from identifying new opportunities to closing complex, multi-year contracts.

Key responsibilities

• Strategic Capture: Identify and shape major defense programs early in the procurement cycle, positioning our company for long-term success.
• Customer Relationship Management: Build and maintain deep, trust-based relationships with a diverse range of defense customers, from end-users to procurement officials.
• Sales Pipeline Management: Manage the full sales lifecycle, including lead generation, qualification, proposal writing, negotiation, and contract closure.
• Market Insight: Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to identify growth areas and influence product strategy.
• Technical Solutioning: Collaborate with our engineering and product teams to create bespoke technical solutions that address specific customer requirements.
• Account Growth: Expand and retain existing key accounts by continuously demonstrating value and introducing new products and services.
• Reporting: Maintain accurate sales records using our CRM system and provide regular forecasts and activity reports to senior management.

 

Your profile

• Proven experience in technical, consultative sales or business development within the defense, aerospace, or a high-tech sector.
• A strong understanding of the UK Ministry of Defense (MOD) industry and decision-making processes.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage confidently with both technical and non-technical stakeholders and at all levels of an organization, from engineers to C-level executives.
• Highly organized, analytical, and performance-driven, with a track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
• Self-motivated and comfortable managing your own workload with a high degree of autonomy.
• Hold UK SC Security Check clearance or have ability to pass clearance
• Experience with CRM software is highly desirable.
• Willingness to travel frequently, both domestically and internationally.

What we offer

• A competitive salary and incentive plan.
• The opportunity to work on projects of national importance that contribute to defense and security.
• Significant autonomy to develop and win strategic business.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on professional development.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including, e.g., pension, life assurance, private medical insurance incl optical & dental (with optional family cover), EAP and 24 hour GP cover, 34 days holiday, Hybrid working and half day finish on a Friday, where possible.

Ready to make an impact?

If you are an ambitious and skilled sales professional with a passion for the defense sector, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role to hr@powerphotonic.com

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.