Vice President of Business Development

General Summary Our client is a nonprofit organization that advances research, innovation, and workforce development in the defense and national security sectors. They serve as a trusted partner to government agencies, universities, and regional innovation ecosystems, helping to strengthen the U.S. industrial base and accelerate technology transition. They are looking to hire a Vice President of Business Development who will play a key role in communicating the company's impact, supporting client program success, and expanding awareness of its capabilities across the defense and technology communities. This individual will work closely with clients, program teams, and leadership to ensure that marketing, outreach, and communications strategies support both mission objectives and organizational growth.

Responsibilities Strategic Growth Leadership:

Develop and implement a comprehensive growth strategy aligned with the mission and the unique requirements of the government contracting (GovCon) market. Lead opportunity pipeline development and ensure consistent engagement with target agencies and industry partners. Stay informed on GovCon market trends and evolving federal procurement needs. Use data-driven insights to identify emerging opportunities and guide leadership on market positioning.

Proposal Development & Capture Management:

Oversee the preparation, review, and submission of competitive proposals and RFP responses. Ensure proposals reflect strong compliance, strategic positioning, and compelling value propositions.

Relationship & Stakeholder Management:

Build and maintain strong relationships with key government agencies, contracting officers, industry partners, and potential clients. Serve as a senior external representative at meetings, industry events, and strategic engagements.

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Lead, mentor, and guide professionals engaged in business development, marketing, and capture activities. Collaborate with program managers, technical leads, and leadership to align growth initiatives with organizational capabilities.

Performance Analytics & Reporting:

Work with the leadership to monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to growth and pipeline health. Provide regular updates to leadership and the Board on growth strategy, performance metrics, and emerging opportunities.

GovCon Expertise & Compliance:

Maintain strong understanding of procurement processes, FAR/DFARS, contract types, and compliance requirements. Leverage GovCon resources and partnerships to navigate and optimize contracting strategy.

Qualifications

10+ years of progressive leadership experience in business development, growth strategy, capture management, or related fields within the GovCon sector.

Proven track record of winning federal contracts and driving organizational growth.

Strong understanding of the defense, national security, or federal civilian markets.

Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex growth initiatives.

Excellent relationship-building, communication, and executive-level presentation skills.

Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret market data and make informed, strategic decisions.

Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, political science, engineering, or a related field required. Master's degree beneficial but not required.

Ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI or program specific access may be required based on contract needs.

Must be U.S. Citizen as verified through the E-Verify program.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.