Graduate Key Account Manager

Job description

We are looking for a commercially driven and relationship-focused Graduate Key Account Manager to lead and grow strategic customer partnerships within the defence sector. This is a pivotal role, responsible for strengthening long-term client relationships, identifying opportunities for sustainable revenue growth, and ensuring customer requirements are translated into high-quality engineered and manufactured solutions . The successful candidate will combine strong commercial acumen with a solid background in engineering or technical manufacturing, alongside a proven track record of managing key accounts in highly regulated industries. With the ability to build trust, understand complex customer needs, and work collaboratively across technical and operational teams, you will play a key role in delivering exceptional customer value and supporting business growth. Key Responsibilities: Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key defence clients, acting as the primary point of contact and trusted partner Collaborate with engineering, production, and project management teams to ensure delivery of solutions that meet technical, contractual, and quality requirements Support the identification and development of account growth opportunities, including new programmes, product applications, and service offerings Lead commercial activities across assigned accounts, including contract management, variations, and pricing considerations, with sound commercial judgement Engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels, balancing client needs with organisational priorities Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory, security, and quality standards within a highly regulated defence environment Monitor customer requirements, industry trends, and competitor activity to inform account strategy and delivery Conduct project closure analysis and reporting, evaluating financial and delivery performance, capturing lessons learned, and applying insights to continuous improvement and future account activities Qualifications: Demonstrable experience in customer service or account support, ideally within electronic or electro-mechanical manufacturing environments Prior experience within the defence, military, aerospace, or electronics manufacturing sectors is highly desirable Strong attention to detail, with a consistent ability to uphold high standards of delivery, quality, and accuracy Competencies: Demonstrates good written and verbal communication skills The candidate must be proficient in MS Office applications Additional Information SECURITY – All candidates must be in a position to obtain UK security clearance to SC level. Additional restrictions may apply on certain defence programmes.