Business Development Manager, Spacecraft Separation Systems

$64,000 - $180,000/Yr

Rocket Lab USA - Silver Spring, MD

Full-time - Mid Level

Silver Spring, MD

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems, known for its innovative rockets and satellites that support vital space missions worldwide. The Business Development Manager for Spacecraft Separation Systems will play a crucial role in managing all business development activities related to spacecraft separation systems, including Lightbands, Cubesat dispensers, and separation connectors. This position is based in Silver Spring, Maryland, and involves close collaboration with both customers and internal teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet mission requirements. In this role, you will lead the business development efforts for Rocket Lab's spacecraft separation systems, focusing on generating and executing sales of products such as Motorized Lightbands (MLB), Advanced Lightbands (ALB), Canisterized Satellite Dispensers (CSD), and Payload Hinges. You will be responsible for developing and implementing sales plans and procedures to manage the sales pipeline effectively and close deals. Collaboration with the Communications & Marketing team will be essential to create product collateral and marketing materials that effectively communicate Rocket Lab's capabilities. Additionally, you will conduct research on the competitive landscape and market trends for separation systems, forecast sales, determine pricing strategies, and support the overall business development strategy. Building and nurturing relationships with existing customers will be key to identifying new business opportunities, while also representing Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and obtaining RFPs from aerospace and satellite primes, as well as leading proposal activities to secure new business. You will also advise on technology licensing deals and strategic acquisitions to enhance Rocket Lab's offerings in the space systems sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead Rocket Lab's spacecraft separation systems business development, generating and executing sales of strategically aligned Motorized Lightbands (MLB), Advanced Lightbands (ALB), Canisterized Satellite Dispensers (CSD), Payload Hinges, and accessories for the Space Systems division.
• Develop and implement sales plans, systems, policies, initiatives, and procedures to manage the sales pipeline and close deals.
• Collaborate with the Communications & Marketing team in creating separation system product collateral, marketing material, and strategic communications.
• Work with Engineering and Production/Operations teams to ensure adequate plans for low lead-time delivery of separation systems.
• Lead research on the latest separation system competitive landscape and market, lead forecasting of separation system sales, determine pricing, and provide support for business development, strategy, and the space systems product and services roadmap.
• Grow existing business opportunities and nurture relationships with existing customers to develop additional business opportunities.
• Create new business opportunities and relationships by presenting Rocket Lab's capabilities/experience to provide spacecraft separation systems.
• Responsible for forecasting pipeline (non-backlog) element of revenue.
• Develop and present bid/no-bid strategies, and manage proposal planning, preparation, and submission.
• Advise on, and help implement, technology licensing deals and strategic acquisitions for new and strategically aligned space systems elements.
• Identify and obtain RFPs from aerospace/satellite primes and other satellite integrators for new and continuing space mission and program opportunities.
• Lead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new business.
• Develop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment, efficiency, and collaboration, including coordinating with stakeholders.
• Represent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings.
• Travel as needed for business opportunities.

Requirements

• Proven experience in business development, sales, or a related field within the aerospace or space systems industry.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft separation systems and related technologies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships with customers and internal teams.
• Ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies and plans.
• Experience in proposal management and preparation, including technical and cost elements.
• Strong analytical skills to assess market trends and competitive landscape.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with government contracts and understanding of the procurement process in the aerospace industry.
• Familiarity with technology licensing and strategic acquisitions in the space sector.
• Previous experience in a leadership role within business development or sales.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
• Flexible work hours and remote work options.
• Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
• Paid time off and holidays.