Sr Director Business Development- Defense & Aerospace

Stephen Gould is seeking an experienced and highly strategic Sr. Director, Business Development – Defense & Aerospace to drive revenue growth, expand market presence, and develop new customer relationships within the defense, aerospace, space, and government contracting sectors. Based in Huntsville, Alabama, this role will serve as a senior growth leader responsible for identifying, pursuing, and capturing new business opportunities with prime contractors, system integrators, OEMs, and emerging defense technology companies supporting critical national security initiatives.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong network within the defense ecosystem, a proven track record of developing strategic partnerships, and the ability to lead complex sales pursuits from opportunity identification through contract award and program launch. 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Engineering, Supply Chain, Industrial Technology, Packaging Engineering, or related field preferred. 
• 7+ years of progressive experience in business development, strategic sales, capture management, account acquisition, or market expansion within defense, aerospace, manufacturing, or government contracting sectors. 
• Demonstrated success identifying, developing, and closing new business opportunities with DoD contractors, integrators, and federal agencies. 
• Established relationships within the defense and aerospace community, including prime contractors and government stakeholders. 
• Experience developing sales strategies, managing pipelines, and driving revenue growth within complex B2B environments. 
• Strong understanding of defense procurement cycles, contract vehicles, and acquisition processes. 
• Prior military experience, particularly within logistics, procurement, aviation, missile systems, sustainment, or operational environments, is considered a strong advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven hunter mentality with a strong focus on new business acquisition. 
• Strategic account penetration and opportunity development. 
• Capture planning and pursuit management. 
• Executive-level relationship building and influencing skills. 
• CRM and pipeline management expertise. 
• Strong negotiation, presentation, and proposal development skills. 
• Ability to identify emerging market trends and translate them into growth opportunities. 
• Experience navigating defense acquisition and procurement environments.