AV · 16 hours ago
Business Development Manager – DE/Gunsight
AeroVironment is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems and tactical missile systems, and they are seeking a Business Development Manager to work with key Army customers. This role involves leading a portfolio of AI-enhanced targeting systems and requires building relationships with Army stakeholders to support modernization efforts.
AerospaceAir TransportationDronesElectric VehicleElectronicsEnergyGovernmentManufacturing
Responsibilities
Lead capture strategy for AI-enhanced EO/IR systems with PEO GCS, GVSC, TACOM, and prime contractors
Develop and maintain trusted relationships with Detroit-area Army stakeholders
Shape proposals and capability briefings that emphasize the AI advantage in target acquisition and tracking
Build a qualified pipeline aligned to Army modernization and soldier lethality priorities
Provide market intelligence, competitor assessments, and insights into AI/ML applications in defense optics
Partner with engineers to ensure customer requirements translate into AI-enabled solutions that are operationally relevant
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
5+ years in defense business development / capture management
Knowledge of electro-optical systems and AI-enabled targeting/tracking solutions
Demonstrated success engaging with PEO GCS, GVSC, or Army acquisition offices
Established relationships in the Detroit defense ecosystem (TACOM, primes, integrators)
Strong communication, networking, and negotiation skills
Strong understanding of government proposal and program requirements
Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for US government programs
Strong understanding of budget and schedule process and able to track and forecast using business analysis technique
Must be a U.S. citizen & eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance
Most engagements in the Detroit defense corridor (Warren, MI)
Occasional travel to: Washington, D.C.; Columbus, GA; Albuquerque, NM
Occasional international travel for FMS and allied programs
Secret clearance level required
Preferred
Experience with vehicle integration of AI & EO/IR systems
Familiarity with Army acquisition processes and modernization portfolios
Understanding of C5ISR, fire control, active protection, and AI/ML applications in defense
Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills
Performs well in a rapidly growing organization with rapidly changing requirements and sales targets
Highly self-motivated with strong problem solving and multi-tasking skills
Uses vision to think beyond the immediate situation, explore multiple potential paths, and adapt decision-making style based on the situational circumstances
Inspires, motivates, and empowers people to deliver organizational goals, while also delivering value back to employees
Brings organizational values to life using personality, uniqueness and the creation of a shared vision
Champions the process of change and promotes a culture of quick adaptation while helping others deal with the effects of change
The ability to develop and maintain internal and external trusting, professional relationships
Benefits
Medical
Dental vision
401K with company matching
A 9/80 work schedule
A paid holiday shutdown
Company
AV
At AV, we build shoulder-to-shoulder with our customers, delivering systems shaped by real-world missions, not theoretical requirements.
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$1.68B2025-07-01Post Ipo Equity· $875M
2025-07-01Post Ipo Debt· $650M
2023-09-19Post Ipo Equity· $109.01M
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