Sales Manager

A leading global engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking an experienced Sales Manager to support growth within the naval and defence sector.

This is a permanent, senior commercial role offering the opportunity to work on high-value, complex programmes with international customers.

The role sits within a specialist marine systems business and focuses on selling integrated engineering solutions across new build and lifecycle programmes.

The Role

As Sales Manager, you will be responsible for driving strategic sales growth across the naval market, working closely with internal engineering, manufacturing, and services teams to deliver customer-focused solutions.

You will act as a key commercial interface for naval customers, leading opportunity development from early engagement through to bid submission and contract award.

This role requires strong coordination across multiple internal stakeholders and the ability to shape compelling commercial offerings aligned to customer requirements.

You will also provide market insight into naval trends and customer needs, contributing to longer-term strategy and pipeline planning.

The role can be based from an existing company location and involves regular international travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute account plans and sales strategies within the naval sector


• Identify, develop, and manage sales opportunities across new build and lifecycle programmes


• Lead bid and capture activity, coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality proposals


• Drive pipeline development, forecasting, and reporting to support business planning


• Act as the primary commercial point of contact for key customers


• Ensure solutions meet customer specifications and regulatory / export compliance requirements


• Build and maintain strong, long-term customer relationships

About You

• Proven experience in a Sales Manager or senior business development role within engineering, marine, defence, or naval markets


• Strong understanding of complex engineered products and manufacturing environments


• Demonstrated ability to translate customer requirements into commercial and technical solutions


• Confident leading bids, influencing stakeholders, and closing high-value opportunities


• Highly self-motivated, commercially astute, and customer-focused


• Willing and able to travel internationally as required

What's on Offer

• Permanent role with a globally recognised engineering organisation


• Exposure to major naval and defence programmes


• Autonomy and influence within a senior commercial position


• Competitive salary and benefits package