Senior Business Development Lead, Defence & National Security

Permanent | Hybrid | UK

Organisation Overview

Our client is an established technology and IT services provider with a strong track record across the UK public sector. Following significant investment, they are building out a dedicated direct capability in Defence and National Security and are hiring a senior sales figure to help drive that growth. This is a rare opportunity to shape a new business area from the front rather than inherit an established patch.

Role Summary

This is a hunter role at its core. We are seeking a proven new business closer who understands the Defence and National Security buying environment and can find, qualify and win significant new work, then either manage the account or hand it to delivery. You will operate with genuine autonomy, open doors through your own network, and build a pipeline from the ground up.

Responsibilities

* Identify, pursue and close new business across Defence and National Security

* Build and own a qualified pipeline aligned to the client's growth strategy

* Develop senior relationships across MOD customers, DE&S, Defence Digital and the front line commands

* Position solutions spanning secure infrastructure, networking, end user services, technology refresh and workplace and collaboration services

* Work with partners where it strengthens the win, while driving genuinely direct engagement

* Shape propositions and commercials to convert opportunities into signed business

* Maintain accurate forecasting and clear pipeline visibility

Essential Skills & Experience

* Demonstrable track record of winning new business in Defence or National Security

* A genuine hunter who can originate, progress and close, not solely manage existing accounts

* Strong existing network across the defence customer and supplier community

* Credibility to operate at senior stakeholder level from day one

* Self-starter comfortable in a build-out environment with limited existing infrastructure

* Minimum SC clearance, or full eligibility to obtain it

Desirable Skills & Experience

* Military service background combined with several years in a commercial sales role

* DV clearance

* Familiarity with the MOD digital and technology estate

Package

* Highly competitive base salary, dependent on experience

* Realistic OTE of 1.5x to 2x base

* Car allowance, private healthcare contribution and a strong commission scheme with guarantees

Call to Action

If you are a proven defence sales professional ready to build something from the front, we would like to hear from you. Apply with your CV for a confidential conversation.