Head of Business Development - Unmanned Systems

Head of Business Development - Autonomous Drones / Dual-Use Defense Tech

Location: Baltimore, Maryland (In-Person)

Compensation: Competitive base + performance incentives + equity potential

Industry: Autonomous Drones / Dual-Use Defense Tech

Citizenship: U.S. Citizens only (Security clearance a strong plus)

About the Company

We are a fast-growing autonomous drone company delivering mission-critical systems for defense, government, and commercial markets. Backed by strong contract wins and a proven platform, we are scaling from prototype to full U.S.-based production. Our solutions operate in the most challenging environments, enabling unmatched mission success for our customers.

About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on Head of Business Development who can own the full BD lifecycle—from identifying opportunities through to winning contracts—across DoD, federal, state, and commercial markets.

This is not just a relationship role. You will personally lead the development of multiple RFP responses, proposals, and bids—and have a track record of winning them. You will work side-by-side with leadership to shape capture strategies, navigate the FAR, and position the company for growth in dual-use defense markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Opportunity Identification & Capture – Proactively identify, qualify, and pursue opportunities with DoD, federal, state, and commercial customers.
• Proposal Development – Personally lead the drafting and submission of winning proposals, tenders, and RFP responses without external handholding.
• FAR Expertise – Interpret and apply Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and related compliance requirements to proposals and contracts.
• Customer Engagement – Build relationships with key stakeholders in defense, government, and commercial markets, ensuring alignment with customer needs and mission goals.
• Market Strategy – Partner with leadership to refine go-to-market strategy and focus capture efforts on high-probability wins.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Work closely with engineering, operations, and program management to ensure proposed solutions are executable and competitive.

Must-Have Qualifications

• Proven track record of personally developing and submitting multiple winning RFP/proposal responses for DoD, federal, state, and commercial entities.
• Deep understanding of FAR and associated compliance requirements.
• 5+ years in business development, capture management, or contracting roles in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing.
• U.S. Citizenship (active security clearance a plus).



Preferred

• Experience in unmanned systems, drones, robotics, or other dual-use defense technologies.
• Strong network within DoD and federal acquisition environments as well as commercial.
• Experience in small-company or startup environments, comfortable operating without layers of infrastructure.
• DAU Contracting/Acquisition Certification (Level I, II, III, or equivalent).