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Defense Business Development Lead

About Odys

Our mission at Odys is simple - we build safe, sustainable aircraft to cut travel time in half on the world's busiest corridors. Our flagship aircraft Alta enables travelers to skip the big-airport hassle by using city helipads and local airports to connect cities less than 1,000 miles apart (approx 40% of flights). And on average cut CO2 by 76% on tens of billions of flight miles globally.

To get there, we start with our UAV called Laila for commercial logistics, medical transport, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and defense missions. We’re deploying aircraft with launch partners (Fiji Airways, Honeywell, Aramex, US Navy) beginning in late 2025 and already have firm orders for aircraft under contract.

We’re a team of expert engineers from deep tech and aerospace that focus on fast iterations loops (completed transition flight faster than our peers) combined with mastery of the aircraft certification process. Previously, our team developed custom drones, brought multiple automotive platforms into production, and electrified transportation vehicles that magnetically levitate, that roll, that fly. Together, we’ve been learning, developing, building, testing, and preparing for this challenge our entire lives.

About The Role

In this role, you will oversee all aspects of government business development. You will collaborate closely with commercial business development, product, engineering, and production teams to identify opportunities that align with company direction and submit proposals that are compelling. Your leadership will be pivotal in defining our defense product and commercial strategy.

Responsibilities

  • Build and lead the team that focuses on developing and satisfying the defense market 

  • Develop and execute defense sales strategy.

  • Engage with defense stakeholders to understand defense market needs and shape future requirements

  • Develop and submit proposals 

  • Manage and extend the defense customer relationships

  • Support and strategize with government affairs office in developing and executing defense government affairs activities

  • Support the execution and reporting of defense specific programs.

  • Develop and secure relationships with suppliers and partners necessary for achieving product and sales objectives. 

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree (Masters preferred, MBA preferred)

  • 10 years prior military experience, aviation or UAV related (preferred) 

  • 5-10 years experience in a defense business development or related role

  • A robust knowledge of the defense ecosystem, program offices, their authorities, their sales cycles, and acquisitions.

  • Able to work with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment

  • Able to travel

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Average salary estimate

$150000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$120000K
$180000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Defense Business Development Lead, Odys Aviation

At Odys, we’re on an exciting mission to revolutionize air travel by making it safer and more sustainable, and we're seeking a Defense Business Development Lead to join our team in Long Beach. Imagine cutting travel time in half on the world’s busiest corridors with our innovative aircraft like Alta, or supporting vital missions using our UAV, Laila. In this pivotal role, your expertise in defense market trends and your ability to foster relationships will be key to our success. You will supervise the development of our defense strategies, engaging closely with teams across commercial development, engineering, and production to pinpoint opportunities that align with our vision. Collaborating with stakeholders, you’ll shape our defense offerings, craft persuasive proposals, and nurture long-lasting client relationships. With your extensive background in the defense sector, you’ll not only understand customer needs but anticipate market shifts, ensuring our initiatives remain ahead of the curve. If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a significant impact on our company's trajectory, we want to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Defense Business Development Lead Role at Odys Aviation
What are the primary responsibilities of the Defense Business Development Lead at Odys?

The Defense Business Development Lead at Odys oversees all aspects of our government business development. This includes building and leading a team focused on the defense market, developing defense sales strategies, engaging with key stakeholders to understand market needs, and crafting proposals to enhance our presence in the defense sector.

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What qualifications are required for the Defense Business Development Lead role at Odys?

To excel as the Defense Business Development Lead at Odys, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree, with a Master's or MBA being preferred. Additionally, significant experience—around 10 years in military roles, aviation, or UAV sectors, along with 5-10 years in defense business development or related positions—is essential.

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How does Odys approach its defense market strategy?

At Odys, the approach to defense market strategy involves close collaboration across teams—commercial, engineering, and production. The Defense Business Development Lead is tasked with understanding defense market needs and shaping our future offerings by developing compelling proposals that align with company goals.

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What kind of experience is preferred for the Defense Business Development Lead position at Odys?

Preferred experience for the Defense Business Development Lead at Odys includes a robust background in military service, along with substantial knowledge of the defense ecosystem, acquisitions, and sales cycles. This practical experience is crucial for navigating the complexities of defense business development.

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Does the Defense Business Development Lead position require travel?

Yes, the Defense Business Development Lead role at Odys does require the ability to travel. This travel is essential for building relationships, understanding the defense market, and engaging with stakeholders across different regions.

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Common Interview Questions for Defense Business Development Lead
What strategies would you implement as the Defense Business Development Lead at Odys?

In answering this question, you should demonstrate familiarity with the defense market and highlight a strategic framework that includes stakeholder engagement, market analysis, and proposal development. Share examples of previous strategies that led to successful outcomes.

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Can you describe a time when you successfully led a team in a defense business development effort?

Use this opportunity to detail a specific instance where you led a team to achieve significant results. Emphasize team dynamics, your leadership style, and how you overcame challenges to reach your goals within the defense sector.

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What is your understanding of the current trends in the UAV market?

Showcase your knowledge of the UAV market by discussing emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer needs. Relate these trends back to how they impact defense applications and business opportunities for Odys.

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How do you prioritize different defense projects or proposals?

Explain your decision-making process in prioritizing projects based on factors such as market demand, strategic fit, and resource availability. Highlight the importance of aligning work with company objectives.

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What methods do you use to build relationships with key defense stakeholders?

Describe your approach to networking and relationship-building, emphasizing techniques that demonstrate authenticity and value. Provide examples of how you’ve successfully established long-term partnerships in previous roles.

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How do you stay informed about changes and developments in the defense ecosystem?

Discuss your strategies for continuous education, such as attending industry conferences, subscribing to relevant publications, and networking with professionals in the field. This will show your commitment to remaining knowledgeable.

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What experience do you have in writing or developing proposals for defense contracts?

Share specific experiences that highlight your strengths in proposal writing. Focus on detailing your process, how you tailor proposals to meet the needs of the defense sector, and any successful outcomes you achieved.

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In your view, what are the biggest challenges facing the defense industry today?

Articulate your perspective on current challenges—such as budget constraints, evolving technology, and regulatory issues. Explain how these challenges could influence Odys and how you would address them as part of your role.

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How would you approach collaboration with commercial business development at Odys?

Emphasize the importance of cross-functional collaboration in your response. Discuss how you would work closely with commercial teams to leverage insights and drive strategic growth in the defense market.

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What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful Defense Business Development Lead?

Highlight essential traits such as strong leadership, solid communication skills, resilience, and adaptability. Provide examples of how these traits manifest in your professional experiences and contribute to successful outcomes.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 3, 2025

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