
Business Development Manager – Defense & Aerospace
Schnellecke Logistics
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Nashville • Tennessee • 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.
- 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, and risk mitigation plans.
- Support onboarding and startup of new defense programs.
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.
- Experience in logistics, manufacturing, or operational environments.
- Fluent in English; Spanish is a plus for cross-border programs.
- Able to complete a background check and drug screening.
Benefits
- Hybrid work model
- Travel required
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
business developmentprogram managementsalesproposal preparationlogistics solutionscompliance documentationrisk mitigationprocurement processesdefense production supportcontrolled materials handling
Soft Skills
relationship buildingcommunicationcollaborationtrust-buildingleadershiporganizational skillsnegotiationproblem-solvingaccount expansioncustomer engagement
Certifications
U.S. Security Clearance