Business development manager

Our client is a technology-oriented company delivering advanced engineering and innovation services for highly demanding industries, with a particular focus on space, defense, and high-performance optical technologies. The organization supports customers throughout the complete innovation lifecycle, from concept development and technical design to industrialization and deployment, helping transform complex technological challenges into successful commercial and operational outcomes.

Operating within an international and innovation-driven environment, the company combines deep scientific expertise with a strong entrepreneurial mindset. Its multidisciplinary teams collaborate closely with governmental agencies, industrial leaders, and technology-driven organizations worldwide, offering professionals the opportunity to contribute to projects with significant technological impact and strategic relevance.

Mission

The Business Development Manager will be responsible for driving commercial growth within the Space & Defense market by expanding the international customer portfolio, developing strategic relationships, and identifying new business opportunities. The role serves as a key link between customers and internal technical teams, ensuring that commercial objectives, customer expectations, and project execution remain fully aligned.

Responsibilities

Business Development and Market Expansion

• Develop and execute business development initiatives focused on the Space & Defense sector.
• Identify, evaluate, and pursue new commercial opportunities across international markets.
• Conduct market analysis to identify industry trends, customer needs, and competitive positioning.
• Expand the company's customer network through strategic prospecting and relationship-building activities.

Customer Acquisition and Account Management

• Build and maintain long-term relationships with key accounts and strategic stakeholders.
• Manage customer interactions throughout the sales cycle, from initial engagement to contract negotiation.
• Identify opportunities for business expansion within existing customer accounts.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through proactive communication and effective stakeholder management.

Commercial Strategy and Sales Execution

• Promote the company’s innovation services through networking activities, international exhibitions, trade fairs, and industry events.
• Leverage digital marketing initiatives and commercial tools to support lead generation and business growth.
• Prepare and manage commercial proposals, quotations, and customer presentations.
• Coordinate internally to ensure customer requirements and commercial commitments are successfully delivered.

Cross-Functional Collaboration and Governance

• Work closely with engineering, production, research, and business teams to support successful project execution.
• Ensure commercial activities comply with established quality standards and internal processes.
• Provide market intelligence and strategic insights to senior leadership.
• Contribute actively to continuous improvement initiatives and organizational growth.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in Commercial Engineering, Economics, Product Development, Business, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development within technology-driven environments.
• Demonstrated international business development experience within the Space and/or Defense sectors.
• Proven ability to build relationships with senior executives, directors, and C-level stakeholders.
• Professional fluency in English and French.
• Strong commercial acumen and customer-oriented mindset.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

Preferred Experience

• Experience selling engineering, innovation, R&D, or high-technology services.
• Exposure to optics, photonics, aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of international governmental or institutional procurement environments.
• Additional language skills, particularly Dutch and/or German.
• Experience operating within fast-growing and innovation-focused organizations.