Business Development Executive, Defense Sector
ICT Group
Job Overview
Who's the hiring manager?
Sign up to PitchMeAI to discover the hiring manager's details for this job. We will also write them an intro email for you.
Job Description
Business Development Executive, Defense Sector at ICT Group
The Dutch Defense sector is on the verge of significant growth, with increasing investments in digitalization and IT modernization creating ample opportunities for organizations that understand the language of Defense. This is not a standard sales role. We are looking for someone who truly knows the defense world – someone who understands how the armed forces operate, speaks the language, comprehends the structure, and has built a relevant network. Commercial skills can be learned; domain knowledge in this sector takes years.
As a Business Development Executive, Defense Sector, you will be responsible for building and expanding our position within the Defense sector. This is a strategic role requiring a long-term perspective: you will build relationships, explore opportunities, and develop propositions that fit the complex world of Defense IT. It's not about quick deals, but about deep, substantive contact with decision-makers and stakeholders within the armed forces and the defense industry. ICT TriOpSys has a strong starting position: we have a proven track record including simulation projects for the Royal Netherlands Army, and a growing network within the sector. You bring the domain knowledge and network to truly capitalize on this position.
What you will enjoy doing
- Develop and execute a business development strategy for the Defense & Aerospace segment.
- Actively build relationships with key stakeholders within the Ministry of Defense, JIVC, the armed forces branches, and defense suppliers such as Thales and RH Marine.
- Identify IT projects, tenders, and collaboration opportunities within the Defense sector.
- Engage substantively with clients on their IT challenges – consultative selling is central.
- Develop propositions and tenders in collaboration with our technical teams.
- Contribute to the long-term strategy of ICT TriOpSys.
- Collaborate with the existing account team, including accounts outside Defense for a varied workload.
What we are looking for
- In-depth knowledge of the Dutch Defense organization, gained through a minimum of 8 years of direct experience at Defense itself, or long-term (10+ years) experience from a supplier or IT service provider on the Defense account.
- A relevant network within the Defense sector.
- Affinity with IT: you don't need to be a developer, but you understand IT projects, software development, and system integration at a business level.
- Residing in the Randstad area or willing to work a minimum of 2–3 days a week at the office in Utrecht.
- Higher professional education (HBO) / university (WO) work and thinking level.
- Experience in a commercial or business development role (consultative/strategic selling) - Preferred.
- Experience with (IT) project management, program management, or procurement within Defense - Preferred.
- Knowledge of tender procedures and framework agreements with the Dutch government - Preferred.
Who are we?
As a specialist in mission-critical IT, ICT TriOpSys helps organizations where security and continuity matter. From providing advice to building and managing business-critical systems: ICT TriOpSys is the partner in the Defense & Aerospace, Public Safety & Security, and Traffic Management sectors. We believe in customization, every client is unique, and are known for our domain expertise and 24/7 service.
What we offer
- Competitive salary, commensurate with the seniority of the role, with an attractive bonus scheme focused on both qualitative and quantitative targets.
- Lease car or mobility allowance.
- 29 vacation days with the option to purchase additional days.
- A close-knit team of driven professionals with strong domain knowledge in mission-critical IT.
- Extensive development opportunities through education and training at our own ICT Academy and externally.
- Hybrid work arrangements with flexible hours.
If you are interested in this vacancy or have questions, please contact Robin van de Linde (robin.van.de.linde@ict.nl).
Even if you are unsure whether you meet all the requirements but see a strong fit, we encourage you to get in touch.
Key skills/competency
- Business Development
- Defense Sector Expertise
- Stakeholder Management
- Consultative Selling
- Strategic Partnerships
- IT Modernization
- Tender Management
- Network Building
- System Integration
- Project Leadership
How to Get Hired at ICT Group
- Research ICT Group's culture: Study their mission, values, recent news, and employee testimonials on LinkedIn and Glassdoor, especially their focus on mission-critical IT within the defense sector.
- Tailor your resume for defense: Highlight your extensive experience, relevant network, and deep understanding of the Dutch Defense organization and its IT modernization needs.
- Emphasize consultative selling: Showcase your proven ability to identify complex IT challenges, develop tailored propositions, and build long-term relationships with defense stakeholders.
- Prepare for strategic discussions: Be ready to discuss your vision for long-term business development, tender processes, and effective stakeholder management within the specific context of the defense industry.
- Leverage your network and expertise: Demonstrate how your existing contacts and in-depth domain knowledge will directly contribute to expanding ICT TriOpSys's position in the Defense & Aerospace segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about this job opportunity
Explore similar opportunities that match your background