Business Development Manager, UxV

Safran Optics 1 is a global leader in full-service design and production of electro-optic and navigation systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optics 1 provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel. The company also offers solutions for commercial, aerospace, industrial, medical and research industries. Optics 1’s product portfolio includes devices and modules for surveillance and reconnaissance missions for dismounted soldier, airborne, naval and land vehicle operations. Optics 1 designs, develops, and manufactures products at its headquarters in Bedford, New Hampshire. The company also has additional research and development and engineering capabilities in Simi Valley and Costa Mesa, California. As part of the Safran Group, Optics 1 is also proud to provide capabilities from Safran Vectronix and Safran Electronics and Defense.

ABOUT OUR MISSION:

Join the forefront of innovation and make an impact at Safran Defense & Space, Inc.! Safran Defense & Space Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., is a leading U.S. aerospace company dedicated to supporting national defense and space missions. As a trusted partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers advanced technology solutions through its specialized business units: Assured PNT, Geospatial AI, Optronics, Space Solutions, and Testing & Telemetry. Headquartered in Bedford, NH, Safran DSI Optronics (formerly Optics 1) is a global leader in full-service design and production of electro-optic and navigation systems. Leveraging core competencies in defense technologies, Optronics provides unmatched, first-class mission solutions for military and law enforcement personnel. We have a high-paced, high-energy environment focused on acknowledging individual and team successes, as well as overall growth. Optronics is a community that cares about the mission of our customers. Our team believes in supporting and enriching our community through engagement; whether that means giving back to our troops, veterans and their families, investing in next generation innovators through STEM education, or higher education initiatives, giving back is an important part of who we are as a team. If you’re ready to join our mission and serve those who serve, Safran DSI is the perfect place for you to take your career to the next level. Make a real difference and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and help us build the future of defense and space.

POSITION PROFILE:

The Business Development Manager is responsible for business development and sales growth in the military and government sectors primarily focusing on promoting and selling innovative solutions for UxV Platforms (UAS / UGV / USV) to the US and FMS markets.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for sales growth of products for Unmanned Platforms supporting the military, Other Government Agencies and law enforcement segments.
• Generate new business opportunities and manage existing accounts as directed while achieving targeted sales growth goals.
• Develop and maintain a thorough knowledge of customer program requirements, current and future opportunities, , organizational structure and key decision-makers in the military and prime customers.
• Develop and maintain strong credibility and customer service reputation with targeted end-users of the Safran DSI portfolio.
• Contact and develop strong relationships within the military, prime customer base and end users with potential interests in EO/IR solutions for the UxV market segment.
• Identify and understand current operational missions, gaps, and roadmaps within the military or other end users.
• Provide strategic roadmaps that match and enhance company products or require development of solutions.
• Articulate product needs to internal product development team and executive staff as required.
• Prepare and conduct senior level technical presentations to end users, government agencies, PM’s and senior military staff.
• Schedule and organize field demonstrations of the product.
• Submit market intelligence regarding customer, contacts, publications etc. concerning competition, new product ideas, pricing, industry trends and customer attitudes.
• Remain knowledgeable of market and industry trends, competitors, and leading customer strategies.
• Be a subject matter expert of all Safran DSI Optronics solutions and their use in practical business settings.
• Prepare and manage quotations and work with contracts staff to ensure terms and conditions are acceptable to Safran DSI Optronics.

Participate in capture pursuits and understand price to win and competitive analysis to increase win probability.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to present and sell to all levels of an organization including the executive level.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines involving a variety of different resources.
• Ability to interface with company team members in a fast-paced, multi-disciplined environment, including program managers, engineers, and leadership.
• Potential to execute new business capture efforts, including customer/opportunity identification, quote generation, and sales administration through contract execution.
• Must be able to participate and take ownership in the company’s annual business development / sales plan, which includes developing and meeting forecasts.
• Must possess an in-depth knowledge of the US UxV market, including key customers, competitive landscape and associated technology.
• Demonstrate high comfort level in a customer-facing role, developing accounts both technically & non-technically with emphasis on customer specific requirements.
• Solid understanding of federal budgeting and acquisition processes
• Demonstrate potential to sell electro-optics products or other technical solutions to a diverse customer base, or extensive relevant military experience.
• Ability to lead field demonstrations of UxV solutions to potential customers and end users.

IDEALLY, YOU’LL ALSO HAVE:

• Experience working in an ITAR environment
• Current security clearance or ability to obtain a security clearance at the SECRET level

TRAVEL:

Up to 50% travel required

EEO STATEMENT & ACCESSIBILITY:

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
• EOE/AA/M/F/Vets – US Protected Individual status required (US citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee, refugee or temporary resident (as defined at 8 USC 1160(a).