Sales Manager (Naval)

Fortress Recruit is working with a well-established defence engineering organisation to appoint an experienced Sales Manager (Navy) to support continued growth across complex naval and submarine programmes.

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of key UK naval customer relationships, driving sales growth, shaping customer-focused solutions and influencing strategy across both new build and through-life support programmes in a highly regulated defence environment.

Key responsibilities:

• Managing and developing relationships with UK naval, MOD and defence customers

• Promoting and selling a full portfolio of complex naval systems and services

• Driving sales activity across new build and lifecycle support programmes

• Leading opportunity development, capture planning and bid coordination

• Translating customer, technical and operational requirements into tailored commercial solutions

• Working closely with engineering, manufacturing, bids and programme teams to ensure aligned delivery

• Supporting pipeline development, forecasting and long-term growth initiatives

• Providing market and customer insight to inform naval strategy and future planning

To be considered for this role, you ll have:

• Proven experience in a sales or business development role within the naval or marine defence sector

• Strong understanding of complex engineered or manufactured systems

• An existing network within the UK defence, naval or shipbuilding community

• Experience managing long-cycle, high-value sales opportunities

• The ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear commercial propositions

• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with confidence operating at senior levels

• A proactive, customer-focused and collaborative working style

• Current security clearance or eligibility to obtain (UK residency and nationality requirements apply)

This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected defence organisation with a strong global reputation, working on strategically important naval programmes and offering genuine scope to influence customer outcomes and long-term growth.

This is a Portsmouth-based role with hybrid working, involving regular UK and overseas travel. On offer is a competitive salary, alongside a bonus and benefits package.

For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please get in touch with Becki at Fortress Recruit.