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GKN Aerospace Careers
Business Development and Sales - Material Solutions
Career Insights for Director of Business Development
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What they do
A Director of Business Development is a highly specialized Business Development Manager. Plans and directs sale of products or services to customers. Coordinates sales distribution. Establishes sales territories, quotas and/or goals for staff, and provides training for sales representatives. Analyzes sales data to monitor customer preferences and develops strategies for increasing sales.
$197,095 / year median in Connecticut
+1% projected growth
Job Description
Business Development and Sales - Material Solutions Apply now »
Date:
Sep 11, 2026Location:
Newington, CT, US Company:
GKN Aerospace Careers Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 32 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.6bn in 2025. There are no limits to where you can take your career. Job Summary The Business Development and Sales - US for Material Solutions is responsible for developing the strategy and executing the commercial growth for the GKN Aerospace market in the United States. This role is a key contributor to Material Solutions' ambitious growth plan, driving revenue expansion while strengthening the company's market position across aerospace and adjacent industries. The position leads business development, sales, marketing, branding, events, customer engagement, strategic partnerships, and funding initiatives within the United States. The successful candidate will cultivate strong relationships with aerospace OEMs, government agencies, industry stakeholders, and strategic partners to accelerate business growth and support the expansion of Material Solutions' capabilities and manufacturing footprint in the US. Job Responsibilities Develop and execute the US commercial strategy to drive revenue growth and achieve annual sales objectives. Identify, qualify, and capture new business opportunities across aerospace, defense, energy, space, and other targeted markets. Build and maintain strategic relationships with customers, partners, government entities, and industry stakeholders. Lead sales planning, forecasting, account management, and business development activities to meet growth targets. Coordinate commercial pursuits, proposals, and bid activities in partnership with Program Management and cross-functional teams. Drive brand awareness and market positioning through customer engagement, industry events, and marketing initiatives. Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and emerging technologies to inform business strategy and investment decisions. Pursue and secure government funding, grants, and incentives that support business growth, capability development, and facility expansion. Support strategic business planning, including new market development, partnerships, joint ventures, and product opportunities. Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Programs, and Defense teams to align commercial objectives with operational execution. Contribute to the expansion of US manufacturing capabilities and long-term growth initiatives. Champion sustainability, circular economy efforts, and company environmental objectives. Provide leadership and influence across internal teams while serving as a key representative of Material Solutions in the US market Perform other duties, responsibilities, and projects as assigned to support business objectives and organizational needs.Job Qualifications Required Qualifications :
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, or a related technical field.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, engineering, business development, sales, marketing, or customer-facing leadership roles.
- Demonstrated success developing and capturing new business opportunities and driving revenue growth.
- Experience managing strategic customer relationships and commercial negotiations.
- Prior leadership experience leading teams, projects, or cross-functional initiatives.
- Strong understanding of aerospace industry practices, customer requirements, and competitive market dynamics.
- Strong business development, sales, and strategic planning capabilities.
- Excellent communication, presentation, networking, and relationship-building skills.
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, including forecasting, budgeting, and business case development.
- Proven ability to influence stakeholders and effectively engage executive-level audiences.
- Must be a
US Citizen Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree or MBA.
- Experience within aerospace propulsion, additive manufacturing, advanced materials, or related technologies.
- Knowledge of government funding programs, grants, and incentive opportunities.
- Experience supporting manufacturing expansion, operational growth initiatives, or strategic partnerships.
- Demonstrated ability to identify market trends and translate opportunities into sustainable business growth.
- Experience working with Aerospace OEMs, Defense customers, or adjacent industrial markets.
- Strong project management and business planning experience.
- Ability to work effectively in a global, matrixed organization.