Business Development Director, Satellite Propulsion

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.   Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.  BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Rocket Lab’s Business Development team is responsible for connecting customers across government and commercial sectors with our industry leading mission solutions spanning launch and space systems. They work closely with new and existing customers to understand their needs and develop tailored solutions to deliver their missions. Building and maintaining relationships with customers and internally with engineering and operations teams is at the core of our Business Development team. They have their fingers on the pulse of the space industry and are driven to deliver results for our customers and our business. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, SATELLITE PROPULSION Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Business Development Director, Satellite Propulsion is responsible for managing all business development activities for propulsion products such as electric propulsion systems and propellant tanks. You will also support senior leadership and the Business Development organization, with deliverables required for our Board of Directors and investors. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Lead Rocket Lab’s propulsion products business development, generating and executing sales of strategically aligned propulsion products to meet and exceed sales metrics for the Space Systems division, including a range of propulsion tanks, thrusters, and complete propulsion subsystems, etc. 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 propulsion product collateral, marketing material, and strategic communications; and the Engineering and Production/Operations teams to ensure adequate plans for low lead-time delivery of propulsion products Lead research on the propulsion product competitive landscape and market, lead forecasting of 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 propulsion products 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 Other duties as assigned or required YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline 12+ years of experience working with contractors in the aerospace or defense industry Experience in the aerospace/satellite sector Experience with satellite propulsion products development, manufacturing, and/or sales THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or business Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management and/or engineering of satellite propulsion products Extensive awareness of current/ongoing commercial and government satellite programs Experience and/or deep understanding of engineering design or analysis is preferred Experience and knowledge of mission design/trajectory capabilities and requirements Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills Must be personable and able to interface well with customers, and present to large groups Experience leading, managing, and growing geographically dispersed teams on fast-paced projects Ability to take ownership and action on challenges, and step up to manage tough situations while encouraging colleagues and direct reports to do the same Proficient in all Microsoft Suite products, including MS Project General knowledge of industry specific technical requirements and quality requirements Understanding of a manufacturing and engineering company, working in a manufacturing environment in the propulsion products industry, and propulsion products for space applications Knowledge of typical propulsion product customer requirements and associated