
Business Development Manager – Defense & Aerospace
Schnellecke Logistics
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Huntsville • Alabama • United States
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Tech Stack
About the role
- Lead business development efforts for the U.S. defense and aerospace sector
- Identify and pursue opportunities with defense OEMs, Tier suppliers, government contractors, and sustainment organizations
- Monitor DoD spending priorities, defense procurement cycles, and major program developments
- Build strong relationships with procurement, supply chain, and program leadership across defense organizations
- Ensure sales activities align with U.S. defense regulations, including ITAR, EAR, DFARS, and cybersecurity requirements (NIST 800-171, CMMC)
- Partner with Legal and Compliance teams to assess contract requirements, export controls, and security considerations
- Support qualification and approval processes to establish Schnellecke as an authorized defense supplier or subcontractor
- Serve as the primary point of contact for defense-sector customers
- Develop long-term, trust-based relationships with senior leaders and program teams
- Conduct business reviews and identify opportunities for account expansion
- Collaborate with Solution Engineering, Operations, Quality, IT, and Finance to design compliant, cost-effective logistics solutions
- Lead RFIs, RFQs, and RFPs in alignment with government contracting standards
- Prepare proposals that include pricing models, compliance documentation, quality frameworks (e.g., AS9100), and risk mitigation plans
- Support onboarding and startup of new defense programs
- Participate in audits, facility assessments, and readiness reviews
- Maintain accurate pipeline, forecast, and CRM data
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field
- 5–10 years of experience in Sales, Business Development, program management in defense aerospace, or Government contracting
- Strong understanding of U.S. defense supply chains and procurement processes, and industry stakeholders
- Experience supporting or bidding on DoD or government contracts
- Familiarity with secure logistics, controlled materials handling, and defense production support
- Active or eligible for U.S. Security Clearance
- Experience working in ITAR/EAR-controlled environments
- Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, and defense quality frameworks
- Spanish language proficiency
- Fluency in English
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Flexible work arrangements
- Professional development
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
business developmentprogram managementproposal preparationcompliance documentationrisk mitigationsupply chain managementdefense procurementcontract requirements assessmentlogistics solutions designpipeline management
Soft Skills
relationship buildingcommunicationcollaborationtrust-buildingleadershiporganizational skillsnegotiationproblem-solvingaccount expansioncustomer engagement
Certifications
U.S. Security ClearanceBachelor’s degree in BusinessBachelor’s degree in EngineeringBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management