[Hiring] Business Development Director @Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace Inc

Role Description

Kongsberg US seeks a Director of Business Development to support growth of our 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.

Successful applicants must be aggressive and adroit at fostering / growing customer relationships, to include engagements at senior levels of the US military and Congressional offices. Understanding the US and global air-launched strike missile market is imperative, as is maintaining close, seamless dialogue with Kongsberg counterparts in Norway to grow business both within the US and beyond. Periodic visits and briefings to foreign diplomats or their Defense, Air, or Naval Attaches (potential customers) will also be required.

The Joint Strike Missile BD Director shall be the primary link and conduit between Kongsberg’s Missile and Aerostructures Division campaigns and operations in Norway and the US market on a day-to-day basis. This position will primarily focus on the Joint Strike Missile product line but will also provide support and assistance across the entire current and future missile portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy to maximize efficient growth and profitability within the US.
• Maintain strong relationships with all current, and prospective, US customers.
• Coordinate Quarterly Update / Status meetings with existing customers.
• Manage relationship between Kongsberg and US Air Force and US Navy aviation training commands.
• Participate in and facilitate relevant Program Management Reviews.
• Grow a strong base of relationships within the US Air Force, US Navy and US Marine Corps aviation communities.
• Manage recurring Trade Show participation.
• Support international capture efforts through actions such as briefing Foreign Embassy staffs.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, commercial as well as military.
• Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies.
• Forge and maintain strategic partnerships, alliances, and collaborations with key stakeholders.
• Drive sales initiatives and revenue growth.
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Participate in full opportunity lifecycle process.
• Work as part of the Kongsberg US Business Development team.
• Maintain awareness and understanding of new technology development / platform development projects.
• Hands-on attitude to work with a willingness to learn and develop.
• Self-starter and team player.
• Problem solver - identifying and resolving problems in production as they arise.
• Collaborative, collegial and enthusiastic attitude towards work.
• Willingness to embrace Kongsberg’s corporate values.
• Willingness to travel, including internationally, and undergo training when required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development within the defense aerospace industry.
• At least 4 years working at the Senior / Executive level, preferred.
• 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.
• Proven ability to build Senior level relationships.
• Deep understanding of the defense market, particularly in missile, aerospace and unmanned systems sectors.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven leadership skills with a track record of managing high-performance teams.
• 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.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Advanced degree (MA, MBA, MSc) preferred.

Clearance Requirements

• Eligible for and ability to obtain a government SECRET clearance.
• Active SECRET or higher clearance preferred.

Other Position Considerations

• Position shall be located in the DC Metro area and operates out of the Kongsberg US Headquarters office.
• Must have or be able to obtain a US passport.
• Up to 50% travel - both domestically and internationally - expected.
• Must be able to work as part of a team; positive “can-do” attitude.
• Flexible in ability to change priorities to accomplish changing team/corporate deadlines and goals.

Schedule

• Day shift, Monday to Friday, 9/80.
• Anticipated training period: 3 months (+).

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Employer paid premiums, 100%.
• Medical Insurance.
• Dental Insurance.
• Vision Insurance.
• Health Savings Account.
• Flexible Spending Account.
• Dependent care Flexible Spending Account.
• 401(k) matching.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Life Insurance.
• Paid Time Off.
• Sick Time Off.
• Flexible Schedule.