Head of Sales (Navy)

Fortress Recruit is working with a well-established defence engineering organisation to appoint a Head of Sales (Navy), supporting long-term growth across complex naval and submarine programmes.
This is a brand-new senior leadership role, created to establish and lead a dedicated naval sales function. The successful candidate will take full ownership of naval sales strategy, shaping commercially robust solutions for mission-critical equipment operating in highly regulated defence environments.
Key responsibilities:
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Owning and delivering the naval sales strategy, pipeline development and forecasting
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Leading, developing and scaling a dedicated naval sales team
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Managing and growing relationships with navies, MOD stakeholders, shipbuilders and prime contractors
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Driving sales activity across new build, upgrade and lifecycle support programmes
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Leading opportunity development, capture planning and bid governance
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Translating complex technical, operational and regulatory requirements into winning commercial solutions
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Working closely with engineering, bids, programme and customer support teams to ensure aligned delivery
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Providing market insight to inform long-term naval strategy and investment decisions
To be considered for this role, you’ll have:
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Considerable senior sales or business development leadership experience within the naval or defence sector
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Proven success managing complex, long-cycle, high-value defence opportunities
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Strong understanding of working with MODs, navies, shipbuilders and prime contractors
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Experience selling complex engineered or manufactured systems in regulated environments
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Credibility and confidence engaging senior military, governmental and executive stakeholders
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A collaborative, structured leadership style with strong commercial acumen
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Current security clearance or eligibility to obtain (5 years UK residency without visa or sponsorship requirement)
The role plays a pivotal part in driving long-term growth, influencing strategy, and leading complex sales activity across new build and through-life support programmes globally. It is an excellent opportunity to join a respected defence organisation at a pivotal stage of growth, offering genuine strategic influence, autonomy and long-term career progression.
This is a Hampshire-based role with hybrid working, including regular UK travel and international travel as required. On offer is a competitive senior salary, alongside a corporate bonus and benefits package.
For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please get in touch with Becki at Fortress Recruit