Business Development Director, Satellite Propulsion

Business Development Director, Satellite Propulsion

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Littleton, CO, the Business Development Director, Satellite Propulsion is responsible for managing all business development activities for propulsion products such as electric propulsion systems and propellant tanks. You will also support senior leadership and the Business Development organization, with deliverables required for our Board of Directors and investors.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Lead Rocket Lab's propulsion products business development, generating and executing sales of strategically aligned propulsion products to meet and exceed sales metrics for the Space Systems division, including a range of propulsion tanks, thrusters, and complete propulsion subsystems, etc.
• Develop and implement sales plans, systems, policies, initiatives, and procedures to manage the sales pipeline and close deals
• Collaborate with the Communications & Marketing team in creating propulsion product collateral, marketing material, and strategic communications; and the Engineering and Production/Operations teams to ensure adequate plans for low lead-time delivery of propulsion products
• Lead research on the propulsion product competitive landscape and market, lead forecasting of sales, determine pricing, and provide support for business development, strategy, and the space systems product and services roadmap
• Grow existing business opportunities and nurture relationships with existing customers to develop additional business opportunities
• Create new business opportunities and relationships by presenting Rocket Lab's capabilities/experience to provide propulsion products
• Responsible for forecasting pipeline (non-backlog) element of revenue
• Develop and present bid/no-bid strategies, and manage proposal planning, preparation, and submission
• Advise on, and help implement, technology licensing deals and strategic acquisitions for new and strategically aligned space systems elements
• Identify and obtain RFPs from aerospace/satellite primes and other satellite integrators for new and continuing space mission and program opportunities
• Lead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new business
• Develop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment, efficiency, and collaboration, including coordinating with stakeholders
• Represent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings
• Travel as needed for business opportunities
• Other duties as assigned or required

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 12+ years of experience working with contractors in the aerospace or defense industry
• Experience in the aerospace/satellite sector
• Experience with satellite propulsion products development, manufacturing, and/or sales

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or business
• Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management and/or engineering of satellite propulsion products
• Extensive awareness of current/ongoing commercial and government satellite programs
• Experience and/or deep understanding of engineering design or analysis is preferred
• Experience and knowledge of mission design/trajectory capabilities and requirements
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
• Must be personable and able to interface well with customers, and present to large groups
• Experience leading, managing, and growing geographically dispersed teams on fast-paced projects
• Ability to take ownership and action on challenges, and step up to manage tough situations while encouraging colleagues and direct reports to do the same
• Proficient in all Microsoft Suite products, including MS Project
• General knowledge of industry specific technical requirements and quality requirements
• Understanding of a manufacturing and engineering company, working in a manufacturing environment in the propulsion products industry, and propulsion products for space applications
• Knowledge of typical propulsion product customer requirements and associated technical solutions, needs, schedules, and costs
• Experience using customer relationship management (CRM) software
• Experience with proposal development, writing, and best practice capture processes, and ability to independently complete cost and technical proposals
• Ability to develop cost estimates for build to print and design to specification programs
• Ability to obtain security clearance

Additional Requirements:

• Frequent domestic and international travel is required
• Availability outside of normal business hours and/or weekends as needed

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (CO Only): $170,000 - $230,000 USD