Business Development Lead, Ground Vehicles at Firestorm

Job description

Business Development Lead, Ground Vehicles Firestorm is looking for a dynamic, mission-aligned Business Development Lead, Ground Vehicles who will drive new business. In this role, you will shape strategy, forge relationships, and identify opportunities where Firestorm’s cutting-edge ground systems can close critical capability gaps. You also will excel at collaborating with and influencing diverse cross-functional Military stakeholders and navigating opportunities across the DoD ecosystem. You’re an entrepreneurial self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, small business setting, and can confidently influence peers and senior colleagues while contributing across the entire business development, capture, and proposal development lifecycle. In addition, you’ll operate at the intersection of defense acquisition, operational planning, and advanced technology delivery—bridging customer need and product innovation. What You’ll Do Develop and implement Firestorm’s UGV engagement strategy—including outreach to operational units, program offices, and platform integrators—to identify and qualify new business and drive long-term growth. Lead market and opportunity analysis focused on all branches of the military and joint customers to inform strategic pursuits. Identify and qualify new business opportunities that align with Firestorm’s capability roadmap and growth strategy. Build and manage strong relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers across the DoD, national intelligence agencies, and industry partners. Navigate DoD budget cycles and acquisition processes to strategically position Firestorm early in the procurement lifecycle. Guide competitive positioning, shape teaming strategies, and oversee development of compliant, compelling proposals for DoD programs. Lead and manage complex sales and capture cycles from initial engagement through contract award. Represent Firestorm at key industry events, conferences, tradeshows, and customer engagements to expand visibility and relationships. Translate complex technical capabilities into mission-relevant, operational use cases and value propositions for diverse stakeholders. Collaborate closely with engineering, product, and cross-functional teams to shape offerings aligned with customer mission needs. Ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations and federal procurement standards throughout the capture process. Maintain accurate business development documentation, including capture plans, activity logs, and CRM records. Track and report on business development performance metrics and pipeline health, providing strategic insights to leadership. Continuously monitor emerging customer needs and evolving market dynamics through direct engagement and research. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, or a related field. U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance 3+ years of experience in federal business development, with direct experience in the DoD sector. At least 2 years of direct experience working & engaging within aerospace and defense, or government services, executing all aspects of business development including pipeline management. Demonstrated success in capturing and growing DoD services contracts, including IDIQs, GWACs, and task orders. Experience in developing win strategies, shaping opportunities, supporting pricing, and leading proposals. Strong understanding of DoD acquisition, contracting processes, and federal procurement trends. Preferred Qualifications Experience with military program offices & operational commands. Demonstrated success leading or influencing cross-functional teams in matrixed organizations. Experience advising or integrating technology, materials, or engineering solutions into military systems. Strong competitor analysis skills and the ability to anticipate market behavior and model competitor strategies. Exce