Business Development Manager – Air Force Programs

Business Development Manager – Air Force Programs Location : Remote (National Capital Region a plus) About Firestorm : At Firestorm , we’re on a mission to transform the defense landscape by delivering cutting-edge autonomous aerial vehicle solutions unlocked by the latest additive manufacturing technology that is effective but also cost-efficient, and adaptable. As a VC-backed company, we are challenging traditional defense procurement models to make mission-critical technologies accessible to U.S. forces and allies. Our next-gen, mission-adaptable aerial vehicles are designed to meet diverse operational needs, from tactical missions to high-end defense operations. Our approach is centered on providing warfighters with flexible, scalable, and low-cost solutions that empower them to deter adversaries and succeed in complex environments. Join Firestorm and become part of a rapidly growing team that is reshaping the future of defense technology. The Opportunity : We seek a highly motivated Business Development Manager to lead our efforts within the Department of the Air Force . This role is integral to driving Firestorm’s growth by identifying strategic opportunities, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and ensuring that our innovative solutions meet the evolving needs of the Air Force. The ideal candidate is intrinsically motivated and driven, a highly skilled communicator, and a critical thinker with a deep understanding of Air Force and Joint warfighting roles, functions, and operational needs, able to identify market trends and create business strategies to achieve growth objectives. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of defense procurement and work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. You’ll have the chance to collaborate with top-tier engineering teams and lead in expanding Firestorm’s impact on the Air Force’s operational capabilities. What You’ll Do : Lead Strategic Market Analysis : Take ownership of market analysis , identifying key trends, emerging opportunities, and potential challenges in the Air Force and broader defense sector. Your ability to deeply understand customer needs and the evolving defense landscape will guide Firestorm’s business development strategy. You’ll continuously assess how Firestorm’s innovative solutions can address both immediate and long-term requirements, ensuring we stay ahead of the competition. Navigate Government Budget & Acquisition Processes : A deep understanding of military budget cycles , procurement timelines, and the federal acquisition process is essential for successful engagement with Air Force and joint defense customers. You will leverage your expertise to align Firestorm’s solutions with DoD budget cycles , research and development, and procurement opportunities, ensuring our products meet the government’s financial and regulatory requirements. Drive Growth & Build Relationships : Develop and execute business development strategies that target key Air Force programs. Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders within the Air Force, DoD, and related agencies. Your network will be instrumental in expanding Firestorm’s reach and fostering strategic partnerships that lead to new opportunities. Communicate Effectively at All Levels : As an expert communicator , you will play a crucial role in articulating Firestorm’s value proposition to senior decision-makers across the Air Force and related defense organizations. You’ll need to tailor complex, technical information into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with senior defense leadership and drive decision-making. Collaborate for Impact : Work closely with Firestorm’s engineering and technical teams to ensure our solutions are aligned with Air Force and Joint requirements. You’ll lead efforts to integrate customer feedback into the development process, ensuring we deliver products that meet the most pressing mission needs. Lead Proposal Efforts & Competitive Positioning : Oversee the development of winning proposals for government contracts, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while positioning Firestorm’s solutions as the best choice for the Air Force. Your market insights will guide proposal development, enhancing our competitive edge . Represent Firestorm and Expand Networks : Attend key industry events and engage in networking opportunities to represent Firestorm’s vision and capabilities. You’ll expand our presence within the defense and venture capital communities and gain critical insights that will shape future strategic decisions. Track and Optimize Performance : Regularly track and report on your progress against business development goals. Use data-driven insights and customer feedback to refine strategies and ensure Firestorm’s continued success in the Air Force and Joint markets. Who You Are : You are a driven, self-motivated critical thinker with a proven ability to analyze operational needs and opportunities across Air Force and joint defense programs . You understand the complexities of multi-branch defense operations and know how to develop solutions that enhance joint interoperability . Your communication skills are exceptional, and you’re adept at tailoring messages to different audiences—from tactical operators to Air Force Senior leaders to cross-service stakeholders —to ensure alignment and drive business results. You are dynamic and adaptable, eager to learn new skills and grow in a fast-paced, evolving environment. As the defense landscape shifts, you thrive in innovative settings and are driven to stay ahead of industry trends and technologies to meet the changing demands of joint defense missions. Skills & Experience : Market Analysis Expertise : A strong track record in market analysis and the ability to identify and act on emerging trends, market shifts, and customer requirements in the defense sector. Your insights will directly inform strategic decisions, ensuring that Firestorm remains ahead of industry developments and aligned with Air Force and Joint priorities. Proven Leader : 5 years of experience leading teams or critical organizational processes. Easily able to adapt to communication styles and drive business development efforts within the defense or aerospace industry , particularly focused on Air Force programs . You have a strong understanding of acquisition processes , budget cycles, and the key decision-making factors that shape government contracts. Expert Communicator : Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex technical solutions to a non-technical executive audience . Your ability to tailor messaging for different stakeholders—from Air Force leadership to technical teams—will be key to your success. Strategic & Analytical Mindset : Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and market trends to inform business strategies. You are a strategic planner , able to balance short-term objectives with long-term growth opportunities. Relationship Builder : Proven ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with senior government officials , stakeholders, and decision-makers across the defense and aerospace sectors. Tech-savvy : Proficient or able to quickly learn various software tools such as CRM software, proposal management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite for reporting, analysis, and presentations. Education : A bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, or a related field is preferred (MBA or advanced degree a plus). Other Requirements : U.S. Citizenship required to obtain security clearance. Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances. Willingness to travel CONUS / OCONUS for site visits, conferences, and customer engagements. Why Firestorm? At Firestorm, we are redefining the future of defense with our innovative, cost-effective solutions in advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, additive manufacturing and enabling software . We offer an exciting, fast-paced, and highly collaborative work environment where your contributions will directly impact the future of defense technologies. As a startup , we are nimble, resourceful, and driven by a shared mission to deliver the best solutions to our customers. If you are passionate about making a tangible difference and thrive in a dynamic, forward-thinking company, Firestorm is the place for you . Powered by JazzHR