SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Director of Business Development focused on satellite solutions for the defense and national security sectors. Based in Tucson, AZ, you will drive growth in the satellite market by identifying and engaging potential clients, developing strategic partnerships, and leading efforts to secure large contracts that expand market share.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead business development initiatives focused on satellite solutions for defense applications
- Develop and execute capture strategies for securing large defense or civil space contracts with government agencies and prime contractors
- Engage with key customer stakeholders to build and maintain long-term relationships, ensuring Rocket Lab's solutions align with evolving needs
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to prepare and deliver compelling proposals that meet customer requirements
- Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform business development strategies
- Grow existing business opportunities and nurture relationships with current customers
- Create new business opportunities by presenting Rocket Lab's satellite capabilities, including bus offerings and complete satellites
- Lead and participate in proposal activities, including technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content generation
- Develop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment and collaboration
- Represent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings
- Travel as needed for business opportunities (up to 50% domestic and international travel)
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems. The Business Development team connects customers across government and commercial sectors with industry-leading mission solutions spanning launch and space systems. The role requires close collaboration with engineering and operations teams and demands deep understanding of customer needs and the space industry landscape.
REQUIREMENTS:
- 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 government acquisition processes, government contracting, and the national security landscape
- Proven track record of securing large (>$20M) contracts and managing strategic relationships within the aerospace industry
- Active TS/SCI security clearance (required)
- Ability to support frequent domestic and international travel (up to 50%)
NICE-TO-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field, or business
- Specialization in US government business development with deep experience selling to US national security (Space Force, NRO, SDA, etc.) or US Civil Space (NASA, NOAA, etc.)
- Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management, and/or engineering of satellite systems, payloads, or platforms
- Extensive awareness of current/ongoing US Government national security or civil 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 with CRM software
- Experience with proposal development, writing, and capture processes; ability to independently complete cost and technical proposals
- Experience working with subject matter experts to collect and create compelling proposal content
Note: This position requires US citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or eligible authorization under ITAR regulations.
