Head of International BD (m/f/d)

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Head of International Business Development (m/f/d) to lead growth initiatives within the defense sector.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of defense procurement processes, government contracting, and strategic sales execution. This role is critical in identifying and capturing new business opportunities, cultivating senior customer and partner relationships, and driving long-term strategic growth while leading and developing a diverse, high-performing team. 

To join our team, you should be excited to:

• Define and drive the international business development strategy for the defense sector, with full accountability for international pipeline growth, opportunity prioritization, and long-term market positioning across priority regions
• Identify, qualify, and pursue international business opportunities across government tenders, multinational and collaborative defense programs (e.g., European and NATO-led initiatives), and emerging defense markets, with a strong focus on European market entry, expansion, and localization strategies
• Build, manage, and sustain senior-level international relationships with defense ministries, armed forces, supranational organizations, OEMs, system integrators, local partners, and relevant regulatory and government bodies across multiple locations
• Lead and oversee international capture planning and bid strategies, including opportunity shaping, competitor and geopolitical analysis, pricing strategies, offset and industrial participation considerations, and win-strategy development, in close collaboration with engineering, program management, finance, legal, and compliance teams
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing business development team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and execution excellence
• Represent the company at key industry forums, customer engagements, and international defense events to enhance global brand presence and strategic market positioning

Your Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA is a plus 
• 7–10+ years of progressive experience in international business development, capture management, or strategic sales within the defense, aerospace, or government contracting sectors, including demonstrated leadership responsibility
• Strong expertise in international and European defense acquisition cycles, procurement processes, export controls, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., European defense procurement, multinational programs, and cross-border compliance)
• Proven track record of winning complex, high-value international defense contracts, including experience navigating multi-country stakeholders, consortiums, and joint ventures
• High willingness and flexibility to travel extensively across international markets, particularly Europe and other strategic regions
• Exceptional cross-cultural communication, negotiation, presentation, and senior stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence varied stakeholders  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English & German are required

About us

ARX is a dual-use technology company that specializes in developing autonomous unmanned systems and sensors for the European defence sector. Our dual-use unmanned ground systems and sensors assist NATO Armies and civilian first responders in tackling their most challenging problems by providing them with training and information to make better decisions and take effective actions in life-or-death situations.

As our team continues to expand rapidly, we are seeking motivated candidates who are excited to work in a highly energetic, creative, and innovative team dedicated to developing autonomous systems for challenging environments. We operate in a dynamic sector where collaboration, sharing innovative ideas, and developing novel problem-solving strategies are ingrained in our work culture.

If you are passionate about overcoming challenges that have a real impact on the security of our democracies, apply here to join ARX and help shape the future of dual-use technology! 
 
In addition to a competitive salary package, we offer the opportunity to participate in the company's success. ARX is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

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