Business Development & Account Manager

The Business Development and Account Manager at Thales will be responsible for growing the Thales business in Southern Africa and manages all aspects of customer relationships, with a primary focus on Aerospace, Defence and Security markets. This role involves developing strategic partnerships, understanding customer procurement requirements, and aligning customer needs with the appropriate Thales Business Lines.

Key responsibilities:

• Grow Thales business in the Southern African countries;
• Comprehensive, up to date knowledge of Thales product portfolio offerings to prospects and Government customers;
• Understand customer missions, operational environments and priorities, broadens their understanding of Thales solutions in connection with their missions, and provides customer/market information to relevant GBU’s/BL’s;
• Promotion of Thales products portfolio to Government customers and end-users;
• Promoting Thales’ Aerospace, Defence & Security products, systems, and solutions, while effectively communicating the company’s vision and value proposition;
• Conduct business development activities and identify growth opportunities within the customer landscape;
• Develop and maintain long-term partnerships with key customers and strategic partners;
• Define, implement, and monitor account objectives and performance targets;
• Prepare, maintain, and execute Capture Plans;
• Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction and long-term engagement;
• Act as a key interface between customers and internal stakeholders across Thales Business Lines.

Requirements:

• Bachelor or Master in sales, marketing or business administration
• 5-10 years of international experience in a comparable role within the aerospace, defence, security, or related industry;
• Experience working with public procurement entities (military or civilian);
• Strong understanding of the Aerospace and Defence and Security markets;
• Demonstrated customer focus with the ability to understand operational needs and translate them into business opportunities;
• Results-oriented, self-driven, and highly disciplined professional;
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills;
• Proven ability to build partnerships and lead cross-functional collaboration;
• Fluent English (C2 level, both written and spoken).