Director Business Development Germany

About the Role

KONGSBERG is looking for a seasoned business development leader with robust connections to enhance its presence and foster growth in Germany, focusing on the Air/Space and Naval/Space sectors. The successful candidate will have a profound grasp of the German defense market, excel in establishing trusted senior-level relationships, and will collaborate closely with the existing business development team and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide sustained sales support aligned with acquisition projects across all divisions
• Act as KONGSBERG’s representative with the German Federal Ministry of Defence, Air Force, Navy, cyber command, and related defense entities
• Serve as the intermediary among customer organizations, procurement, planning bodies, service branch commands, and internal divisions
• Assist all KONGSBERG divisions in dealings with governmental bodies and associated organizations
• Manage and prevent conflicts of interest between different KONGSBERG business units
• Coordinate KONGSBERG’s presence within the Ministry of Defence and military branches
• Develop and sustain extensive personal networks within the defense sector
• Deliver proactive situational reports and insights on customer trends, including procurement considerations related to Bundeswehr transformation
• Identify and document potential business opportunities
• Support program execution and project management efforts
• Represent the company in various industry organizations and associations
• Assist with coordinating association management and related event activities
• Support military-sector CRM management

Qualifications and Experience

• University degree completion; background in military service or reserve training is preferred
• Experience working in defense technology sales, development, or technology areas
• Intimate knowledge of procurement organizations and requirements authorities within BMVg, including organizational structures and processes
• Proficiency in Project-Based Procurement and In-Service Support (PBN)
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and conflict-resolution capabilities
• Strong strategic, conceptual thinking and independent working style
• Ability to engage confidently and professionally with customers
• Skilled in effective dialogue, information gathering, neutral reporting, and providing recommendations
• Outgoing personality with a commitment to expand networks continuously
• Political sensitivity, especially around major German prime contractors
• Willingness to travel as required
• Established networks within defense technology circles and specifically the German Air Force and/or Navy, including senior leadership contacts

Personal Attributes

• Clear, confident communication with senior stakeholders
• Proactive, independent, and organized information management
• Diplomatic and politically aware, capable of balancing complex interests
• Enjoyment in building enduring, trust-based networks
• Combination of strategic insight and practical business acumen

Why Join KONGSBERG?

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape KONGSBERG’s strategic direction in Germany and impact significant defense and security priorities. You will engage across divisions, collaborate with highly skilled colleagues, and enhance a vital market presence.