Business Development Manager

Description:

CAE, a global leader in training and simulation for the defence and aerospace industries, is seeking a highly skilled and driven Business Development / Sales Manager to join its Defence & Security division. This role focuses on expanding CAE’s footprint within military pilot training in the United Kingdom.

As part of a small, high-impact Business Development team, you will play a pivotal role in driving growth, building relationships, and shaping CAE’s long-term strategy in the defence training market. The ideal candidate will possess deep understanding of the defence ecosystem, particularly within the UK military aviation sector, and will have strong experience in managing complex B2B and B2G relationships.

This position is based in Burgess Hill, where regular presence is required, and offers the opportunity to work with one of the most recognized names in aviation simulation and training worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development

• Identify, lead, and execute business development and sales strategies for CAE’s products and services in the UK defence market.

• Leverage your established professional network within the armed forces, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), OEMs, and other defence ecosystem stakeholders to expand CAE’s presence.

• Assess and shape customer requirements, aligning them with CAE’s capabilities and future growth plans.

• Identify emerging opportunities and new market entry points for CAE’s military pilot training solutions.

Sales

• Manage B2B and B2G sales opportunities from initial prospecting through to contract award.

• Ensure compliance with corporate governance, lead-to-award processes, and business ethics standards.

• Achieve sales growth targets, drive revenue, and expand the opportunity pipeline.

• Represent CAE at key industry events, trade shows, and exhibitions to enhance brand visibility and business engagement.

Internal Collaboration & Reporting

• Coordinate with internal teams including Capture, Bid, Program, Portfolio, Legal, and Finance to ensure unified business strategies.

• Regularly brief senior leadership on strategic matters and business progress.

• Maintain accurate CRM records and deliver reports for forecasting and performance tracking.

Compliance

• Ensure all sales and business development activities adhere to CAE’s compliance policies and defence regulations.

Required Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in business development or sales within the defence or aerospace sector.

• Strong network of industry and government contacts, especially within the UK defence environment.

• Demonstrated success in winning large-scale defence or aerospace programs.

• Understanding of capture strategies, competitive analysis, price-to-win methodologies, and customer engagement processes.

• Background in military fixed-wing or rotary-wing aviation is highly desirable but not mandatory.

• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills.

• Ability to work autonomously while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance (resided in the UK for the past 5 years) or hold transferable NATO SC level clearance.

About CAE

CAE is a global leader in simulation-based training solutions across civil aviation, defence, and healthcare sectors. With decades of expertise, CAE empowers professionals to perform at their best through innovative technology, immersive training environments, and mission-critical simulation systems.

As part of the Defence & Security division, you will help shape the future of military pilot training, supporting armed forces with advanced solutions that enhance operational readiness and safety.

Equal Opportunity Employer

CAE is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity and equal opportunity are at the forefront. The company welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and encourages those who may not meet every listed requirement to apply.

If you need reasonable accommodation or support during the application process, please contact CAE Careers for assistance.