Business Development Manager
Are you ready to revolutionise the world with TEKEVER?
At TEKEVER, we lead innovation in Europe as the European leader in unmanned technology, where cutting-edge advancements meet unparalleled innovation.
Digital | Defence | Security | Space
We operate across four strategic areas, combining artificial intelligence, systems engineering, data science, and aerospace technology to tackle global challenges — from protecting people and critical infrastructure to exploring space.
We offer a unique surveillance-as-a-service solution that delivers real-time intelligence, enhancing maritime safety and saving lives. Our products and services support strategic and operational decisions in the most demanding environments — whether at sea, on land, in space, or in cyberspace.
Become part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and mission-driven team that is transforming maritime surveillance and redefining global safety standards.
At TEKEVER, our mission is to provide limitless support through mission-oriented game-changers, delivering the right information at the right time to empower critical decision-making.
If you're passionate about technology and eager to shape the future — TEKEVER is the place for you.
Mission:
The Business Development Manager is responsible for driving commercial growth across the space ecosystem by identifying new opportunities, forming strategic partnerships, and securing long-term contracts. This mid-to-senior level role requires a strong understanding of the space market—including satellite systems, launch services, space infrastructure, or downstream applications—and the ability to engage credibly with government, institutional, and commercial stakeholders.
The role blends strategic market development with hands-on execution, supporting revenue growth across institutional, defense, and commercial customers.
What will be your responsibilities:
Market & Strategy Development
Identify and develop new business opportunities across space-related markets (e.g., Earth observation, telecommunications, space exploration, SSA or downstream applications)
Analyze market trends, customer needs, regulatory environments, and competitive landscapes
Support definition and execution of go-to-market and capture strategies for priority accounts and programs
Sales & Commercial Execution
Lead business development activities from opportunity identification through contract negotiation and closing
Manage complex, long-cycle sales processes involving public institutions, prime contractors, and commercial operators
Develop compelling value propositions, proposals, and pricing strategies aligned with customer missions
Public Sector & Institutional Bids Management
Identify and assess relevant public funding programs, calls for proposals, and procurement opportunities (e.g., R&D, innovation, operational services)
Lead and coordinate bids and tenders with European and national public-sector entities, including European Space Agency (ESA), European Commission (EC), European Defence Agency (EDA), and national space, defence, and innovation agencies
Own the end-to-end bid process, including opportunity qualification, consortium building, compliance review, proposal development, submission, and contract negotiation
Act as the primary commercial interface with institutional customers throughout the tender lifecycle and support negotiation of grant agreements, contracts, and amendments following award
Maintain a structured pipeline of institutional opportunities and monitor funding roadmaps and future calls
Partnerships & Ecosystem Engagement
Build and maintain strategic relationships with customers, partners, integrators, and suppliers
Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and international conferences
Identify partnership or consortia opportunities for major institutional or exploration programs
Cross-Functional Leadership
Work closely with engineering, product, legal, and program management teams to shape competitive offers
Translate customer requirements into internal technical and commercial inputs
Contribute to roadmap planning and investment decisions based on market intelligence
Governance & Reporting
Maintain an accurate opportunity pipeline and provide realistic sales forecasts
Ensure compliance with export control, procurement, and institutional contracting requirements
Prepare regular business reviews and strategic updates for senior leadership
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Economics, or a related field
5–10+ years of experience in business development, sales, or commercial roles within the space or aerospace sector
Solid understanding of space systems, services, and industry stakeholders
Proven experience managing complex B2B or B2G sales cycles
Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Experience working with international customers and partners
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree (MBA, Aerospace Engineering, or similar)
Experience with institutional customers (e.g., ESA, NASA, EU, national space agencies, defence organizations)
Experience with commercial customers and the New Space market
Knowledge of export control regulations (ITAR/EAR or equivalents)
Existing industry network within the space ecosystem
Experience contributing to major bids or strategic programs
Key Competencies
Strategic and commercial mindset
Ability to bridge technical and business discussions
Relationship-driven and highly credible with senior stakeholders
Resilient, autonomous, and comfortable with ambiguity
Strong planning, prioritization, and decision-making skills
What we have to offer you
• A dynamic and collaborative working environment, with the opportunity to make a real impact
• A competitive salary package, aligned with your proven level of experience
• Meal allowance and health insurance for employees
• Shuttle transport service to the offices in Leiria, Caldas da Rainha and Ponte de Sor
• Bonus in line with company policy
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Do you want to know more about us ?
Visit our LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tekever/
- Department
- BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
- Locations
- (PT) Tekever Lisboa
- Remote status
- Hybrid