Business Development Manager, Navy/USMC

About the role

Firestorm is looking for a dynamic, mission-aligned Business Development Manager to drive our engagement with the U.S. Navy & U.S. Marine Corps. In this role, you will shape strategy, forge relationships, and identify opportunities where Firestorm’s cutting-edge systems can close critical capability gaps. You will excel at collaborating with and influencing diverse cross-functional Navy & Marine Corps stakeholders and navigating opportunities across the Department of Navy (DoN).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Firestorm’s Navy and Marine Corps engagement strategy—including outreach to operational units, program offices, and platform integrators—to identify and qualify new business and drive long-term growth.
• Lead market and opportunity analysis focused on Navy, Marine Corps, and joint customers to inform strategic pursuits.
• Identify and qualify new business opportunities that align with Firestorm’s capability roadmap and growth strategy.
• Build and manage strong relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers across the DoW, DON, national intelligence agencies, and industry partners.
• Navigate DoW budget cycles and acquisition processes to strategically position Firestorm early in the procurement lifecycle.
• Guide competitive positioning, shape teaming strategies, and oversee development of compliant, compelling proposals for DoN programs.
• Represent Firestorm at key industry events, conferences, tradeshows, and customer engagements to expand visibility and relationships.
• Translate complex technical capabilities into mission-relevant, operational use cases and value propositions for diverse stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, product, and cross-functional teams to shape offerings aligned with customer mission needs.
• Maintain accurate business development documentation, including capture plans, activity logs, and CRM records.
• Track and report on business development performance metrics and pipeline health, providing strategic insights to leadership.
• Continuously monitor emerging customer needs and evolving market dynamics through direct engagement and research.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Finance or equivalent education. In lieu of a degree, 10+ years of progressive relevant experience is required.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of War (DoW) security clearance.
• Active Secret clearance at hire required. 8+ years of experience in federal business development, with direct experience in the Navy, USMC or DoW sector.
• 5+ years of direct experience working & engaging within aerospace and defense, or government services, executing all aspects of business development including pipeline management.
• Experience capturing and growing DoW services contracts, including IDIQs, GWACs, and/or task orders.
• Experience in developing win strategies, shaping opportunities, supporting pricing, and leading proposals.
• Understanding of DoW acquisition, contracting processes, and federal procurement trends.

Qualifications

• Prior experience with DoW, DoN acquisition offices or operational Navy/USMC commands, either as a civilian or military service member.
• Experience with DoN program offices & operational commands.
• Demonstrated success leading or influencing cross-functional teams in matrixed organizations.
• Experience advising or integrating technology, materials, or engineering solutions into naval systems.
• Strong competitor analysis skills and the ability to anticipate market behavior and model competitor strategies.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and budget management capabilities.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented and results-driven, to achieve business objectives.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision plans, a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan, equity grants, unlimited PTO, and generous parental leave.
• Work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
• Additional work-life services, including free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
• ITAR Compliance: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.