Technical Sales / Business Development Manager - Aerospace & Defence

Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Salary & Package: Negotiable - Dependent on Experience and Revenue Track Record
Industry: Precision Engineering | Motorsport | Automotive | Aerospace | Defence

Recruiter's Note

I'm currently working in partnership with a leading precision engineering company based in Oxfordshire that has a long-standing reputation for supplying high-performance machined components to the motorsport, F1, and high-end automotive industries. Due to continued growth and a strategic vision to diversify, the business is now looking to enter the aerospace and defence markets.

To support this exciting transition, we are actively seeking an experienced and commercially driven Technical Sales / Business Development Manager who has a strong track record of winning manufacturing work within the aerospace and defence sectors. This is a critical, senior-level appointment that will play a pivotal role in shaping the company's next phase of growth.

About the Company

With over 20 years of expertise, this precision engineering firm is known for complex, high-tolerance machining and tooling solutions, primarily for the motorsport and automotive sectors. Operating from a modern, well-equipped facility in Oxfordshire, they offer CNC turning, milling (3, 4 & 5-axis), and assembly capabilities for some of the world's most demanding clients.

Now, the business is keen to diversify its client base and leverage its engineering capability within the aerospace and defence sectors - and they are looking for someone who can make that happen.

The Opportunity

This is a hands-on, commercially focused role that requires more than just sales ability. We're looking for someone who understands how aerospace and defence procurement works, has existing industry contacts, and can take ownership of the full sales lifecycle - from identifying leads and preparing tenders, through to negotiating and closing contracts.

You will be expected to act as the bridge between the customer and the engineering/production team, understanding client needs and ensuring the business is well-positioned to deliver value on technically complex work.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the acquisition of new business from aerospace and defence companies, including OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers.

Generate and respond to RFQs, tenders, and technical proposals, ensuring accuracy and alignment with internal production capabilities.

Identify and nurture strategic relationships within aerospace and defence procurement and engineering departments.

Act as the commercial point of contact for all aerospace and defence enquiries.

Drive the business development strategy for new market entry, including account planning, competitor analysis, and bid strategy.

Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, operations, quality) to ensure customer requirements are achievable and aligned with internal capacity.

Represent the company at industry trade shows, networking events, and client meetings to raise brand awareness and uncover new leads.

Report on key performance metrics, pipeline development, conversion rates, and revenue generated.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Previous experience in technical sales, account management, or business development within a precision engineering environment.

Demonstrable success in winning manufacturing work from aerospace and/or defence clients.

Existing network of decision-makers and procurement professionals within aerospace and defence.

Strong commercial understanding of manufacturing margins, quoting, pricing, and bid processes.

Able to read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and 3D CAD models.

Self-motivated and entrepreneurial mindset - this is not a KPI-driven telesales role, but a consultative, strategic position.

Comfortable working closely with technical and production teams to convert enquiries into deliverable projects.

Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to clients across the UK and internationally if required.

Hours, Salary & Benefits

Hours: 08:00 - 17:00, Monday to Friday (on-site)

Salary: Competitive & negotiable depending on experience, past performance, and revenue history.

Candidates with a strong track record of generating six- or seven-figure contracts in aerospace and defence will be offered premium salary and commission structure.

Bonuses/Commission: Performance-based, tied to new business and revenue generated.

Additional Benefits:

Company pension

On-site parking

Supportive leadership team

Direct influence over business direction and market strategy

Potential progression into a senior leadership or director-level commercial role

Why Join?

This is a unique opportunity to take an already highly respected engineering business into new markets. You'll be given full autonomy to build, shape, and grow the aerospace and defence division - backed by a capable and agile manufacturing team, and a director who is actively invested in your success.

If you're ready for a new challenge and want to take ownership of your next role, I'd love to speak with you, please email (url removed)