VP of Business Development (Defense)

Job description

Accountabilities: Lead business development efforts across Department of Defense and national security programs, driving strategic growth initiatives and pipeline expansion. Build and manage a qualified pipeline across government contracts, OTAs, SBIRs, and related defense acquisition channels. Establish and maintain strong relationships with Pentagon leadership, military branches, congressional stakeholders, and defense ecosystem partners. Shape and capture strategic opportunities from early-stage identification through proposal development, negotiation, and award execution. Develop partnerships with prime contractors, innovation organizations, technology companies, and government stakeholders to strengthen market positioning. Advise executive leadership on growth strategy, competitive positioning, market opportunities, and long-term defense engagement initiatives. Translate operational mission requirements into scalable commercial and technology-driven solutions aligned with government priorities. Support organizational credibility and visibility within the defense sector through strategic engagement, collaboration, and relationship management. Contribute to the development of scalable business development processes, team collaboration, and long-term growth planning. Requirements: 15+ years of experience in defense, government, national security, or related strategic leadership environments. Senior-level leadership experience within military, government, defense contracting, or equivalent operational organizations. Deep understanding of Department of Defense acquisition processes, funding mechanisms, procurement pathways, and stakeholder ecosystems. Proven success building trusted relationships with defense leaders, government agencies, and strategic industry partners. Strong track record converting mission-driven requirements into funded programs, contracts, or strategic partnerships. Excellent communication, negotiation, strategic planning, and stakeholder management skills. Ability to operate effectively within highly dynamic and mission-focused environments. Experience supporting programs involving emerging technologies such as AI, autonomy, cyber, defense software, or space technologies is highly preferred. Previous leadership experience managing or mentoring business development teams is considered an advantage. Must be a U.S. Citizen currently based in the Washington, DC area. Benefits: Competitive salary range of $225,000 to $275,000 with significant performance-based bonus opportunities. Equity participation and long-term incentive opportunities. Fully remote and flexible work environment focused on outcomes and autonomy. Comprehensive employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible family members. Unlimited paid time off policy with management approval. Generous 14-week fully paid parental leave program. Access to 401(k), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and additional financial wellness programs. Professional development and continued learning opportunities. Mental health support and wellness benefits. Opportunity to work within an innovative, mission-driven organization focused on solving complex national security challenges through advanced technology. How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best! Why Apply Through Jobgether? Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time. #LI-CL1 This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a VP of Business Development (Defense) in the United States. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for an experienced business development executive passionate about advancing mission-critical technologies within the national security and defense ecosystem. The role focuses on driving growth across Department of Defense programs by building trusted relationships, shaping opportunities, and securing high-impact partnerships. You will work at the intersection of emerging technologies, government innovation, and operational strategy, helping translate complex mission needs into scalable commercial solutions. The position offers strong executive visibility and the chance to influence long-term growth initiatives within a fast-paced and innovation-driven environment. Ideal candidates are highly connected within the defense community, thrive in complex stakeholder environments, and bring a deep understanding of defense acquisition and funding processes. This role is particularly suited for a strategic operator eager to contribute to transformative capabilities supporting national resilience and security objectives.