SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
Salary: USD 195,000 - 293,000 / annual
Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Director of Business Development to drive growth in the satellite market, with a focus on civil and commercial opportunities including government civil space agencies, research institutions, Earth observation companies, and technology firms.
In this role, you will lead business development initiatives focused on satellite solutions for civil and commercial applications. Key responsibilities include developing and executing capture strategies for large commercial or civil space contracts; engaging with key customer stakeholders to build and maintain long-term relationships; collaborating with cross-functional teams to prepare compelling proposals; monitoring industry trends and competitor activities; growing existing business opportunities; creating new business relationships by presenting Rocket Lab's capabilities and satellite solutions (including bus offerings and complete satellites); leading and participating in proposal activities covering technical, management, cost, and schedule content; developing strong relationships across all levels of the business; representing Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings; and traveling as needed for business opportunities.
You will work closely with new and existing customers to understand their needs and develop tailored solutions. Building and maintaining relationships with customers and internally with engineering and operations teams is at the core of this role. You will have your finger on the pulse of the space industry and be driven to deliver results for customers and the business.
QUALIFICATIONS (Required):
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
- 15+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sector
- In-depth knowledge of commercial acquisition processes, government contracting, and the commercial space landscape
- Proven track record of securing large (>$20M) contracts and managing strategic relationships within the aerospace industry
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
- Ability to support frequent domestic and international travel (up to 50%) to meet with clients, attend industry events, and support capture efforts
QUALIFICATIONS (Nice to Have):
- Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field, or business
- Specialization in civil and commercial business development
- Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management, and/or engineering of satellite systems, payloads, or platforms
- Extensive awareness of current/ongoing commercial space satellite programs
- Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
- Experience leading, managing, and growing geographically dispersed teams on fast-paced projects
- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite products, including MS Project
- General knowledge of industry-specific technical and quality requirements
- Experience using customer relationship management (CRM) software
- Experience with proposal development, writing, and best practice capture processes; ability to independently complete cost and technical proposals
- Experience working with subject matter experts to collect and create compelling proposal content and detailed responses
