Sales and Business Development Manager Sparkwing Solar Arrays

Sales and Business Development Manager Sparkwing Solar Arrays

At Airbus Netherlands we work at the frontiers of technology in one of the most challenging and rapidly changing industries in the world: Space. Our products and services - including solar arrays, launcher structures, instruments, laser satellite communication products and defence systems - are among the best in the world. They enable missions that are of great importance for our everyday life on Earth, such as satellite navigation, communications, climate research and monitoring of air quality. At our state-of-the-art facilities in Leiden (located on the Bio Science park) and Oegstgeest, a team of over 250 dedicated professionals work on the design, development, assembly, testing and delivery of space products and services.

We do that by thinking creatively in terms of solutions and by working with like-minded business partners. Intensive collaboration in our international community is key to our success, also within the Airbus family that we are proudly part of. 

One of our fastest growing business areas is that of Solar Arrays for the rapidly expanding market segment of smallsats and smallsat based constellations. Our new Sparkwing Product Line is gaining large market traction and we are at the starting point of further expanding our footprint by introducing a next generation version of our Sparkwing products. Being responsive and knowing and understanding our customers is a key element of our success, in a market dominated by startups and new ventures, where high quality, reliable delivery performance combined with an attractive pricing are prerequisites.

To drive our Sparkwing business to the next level we are searching for a Sales and Business Development manager with the right skills who will be the face and embodiment of the Sparkwing team and its’ highly responsive attitude.

The role

You will be responsible to:

• Ensure that we understand the needs of our (future) customers and that our technology developments lead to viable commercial products.
• Contribute to the overall Solar Array product strategy and roadmap, focusing on the Sparkwing element of it, with a vision on future market trends and related customer needs.
• Develop and manage the Sparkwing Business Case, securing the relevant R&D funds, developing market leads and generate high quality bids, leading the process up to contract signature (and following-up with our customers to maintain and expand our relation).
• Establish, build and maintain a network with all relevant stakeholders (customers, technology partners, supply chain, agencies, etc.).
• Define and develop the required marketing approach and PR efforts including website content, conference attendance and promotion material.
• Motivate and drive the Sparkwing team to continue to excel.

What you bring

• A university education, preferably technical.
• At least five years of working experience in a Sales/Business Development position.
• A ‘knack’ for the commercial part of the space business is a must. Experience and an international network in this area a prerequisite.
• Affinity and/or background with Solar Array products is important; as a minimum the candidate shall have a strong technical affinity and/or background in the related fields of expertise (mechanical, electrical, electronic). Other (formal) qualifications are a plus.

And furthermore

• You are results-driven, pragmatic and proactive and you have the ability to “open doors”.
• You have strong communication and negotiation skills with a great commercial awareness.
• You are a strategic thinker and capable of navigating through challenging political environments.
• You have the ability to challenge the status quo
• You are fluent in English, both spoken and written. 

Our offer

We offer a fulltime job in a dynamic and international working environment, extensive opportunities for personal development and attractive working conditions.

• Good salary and excellent working conditions
• 27 holidays and 13 ATV
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of working from home with a maximum of 40%
• Pension scheme
• Collective Health Insurance
• Company Fitness
• Tax free plan

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. A pre employment screening will be part of the selection procedure.