Business Development Director-Aerospace, Defence & Industrial

Are you a commercially driven leader with deep expertise in the Aerospace, Defence and Industrial sector? Do you thrive on winning complex new business, influencing senior stakeholders, and shaping growth strategies in dynamic markets?

At DSV, your work has a real impact. You will lead the growth of one of our most strategic sectors, helping customers build resilient, innovative and high‑performing supply chains.

As Business Development Director – Aerospace, Defence & Industrial, you will drive commercial success, develop long‑term customer partnerships and position DSV as the logistics partner of choice across the UK.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Aerospace, Defence & Industrial sector across the UK with clear strategic direction, measurable objectives and ambitious growth targets.
• Develop and own the UK Aerospace, Defence & Industrial commercial growth strategy aligned to DSV Contract Logistics’ overall business objectives.
• Identify, qualify and convert major new business opportunities with OEMs, defence primes, Tier 1 suppliers, advanced manufacturers and industrial organisations.
• Drive significant new business revenue through proactive prospecting, solution selling and strategic account penetration.
• Develop deep market intelligence covering customer strategies, industry trends, geopolitical influences, government investment and emerging supply chain requirements.
• Represent DSV within key Aerospace, Defence and Industrial industry bodies, trade associations, exhibitions and networking events to enhance market visibility.
• Lead complex bid and tender activities, ensuring commercially competitive, innovative and operationally deliverable Contract Logistics solutions.
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Solutions Design, Engineering, IT, Finance and Procurement to develop differentiated customer propositions.
• Champion innovation across the sector, leveraging automation, digitalisation, sustainability and supply chain resilience to create competitive advantage.
• Build strong relationships across the DSV global network to leverage international capabilities for multinational Aerospace & Defence customers.
• Maintain accurate sales pipeline management within Microsoft Dynamics CRM and deliver regular forecasting against agreed business targets.
• Implement the sector business development plan and track success and failures for feedback and strategy evolution.
• Drive a clear and agreed marketing plan with the marketing team, including social media plans, events and industry bodies.
• Prospect, hunt and hone targets through to tender and business wins – to meet or exceed set targets.
• Lead and engender a culture of open communication, personal responsibility and accountability across the team.
• As a senior member of the DSV Business Development Leadership team, support leadership forums and thought leadership for the business.

Qualifications

• Proven commercial leadership experience within Aerospace, Defence and/or Industrial logistics.
• Strong understanding of Contract Logistics, warehousing, manufacturing support and integrated supply chain solutions.
• Demonstrated success winning complex, high‑value strategic business opportunities.
• Deep knowledge of Aerospace & Defence supply chains, manufacturing operations and operational excellence.
• Established network across OEMs, defence contractors, Tier 1 suppliers and industrial manufacturers.
• Degree qualified or equivalent professional experience.
• Clear ability to interact at a senior level both internally and externally, requiring a high degree of gravitas, impact and credibility.
• Excellent track record of delivering results through strong negotiation skills in complex and highly competitive environments for renewals and new business.
• High level of numeracy and literacy.
• Inspire trust and respect, providing strong direction with clear objectives.
• Ability to lead effectively within a matrix structure, where influencing is required at times rather than direct line management.

Benefits

• Enhanced Annual Leave Entitlement from start, increasing with length of service.
• Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme for Ultra‑Low Emissions Cars.
• Salary Sacrifice Cycle Scheme.
• WeCare App – support with physical and mental wellbeing, including access to GPs for employees and dependents.
• LifeWorks App – access to cashback and discounts on high‑street and online brands.
• Life Insurance with expert probate support.

Location: Mercia Park (DE12) – travel across the UK as required.

Position: Full Time.

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