Defense Business Development Manager

About the role

The Defense Business Development Manager will own identifying, cultivating, and leading high-impact partnerships across the defense, technology, and maritime sectors. This is a full-time, on-site role at our Los Angeles headquarters.

Responsibilities

• Developing and executing government contracting and sales strategies across the Navy, defense primes, and adjacent government entities
• Identifying and prioritizing opportunities across defense and commercial maritime sectors with particular focus on autonomous and unmanned platforms
• Engaging senior stakeholders from defense primes, government entities, and the military
• Identifying relevant programs and contracts where our technology can be applied, with a strong understanding of defense procurement pathways
• Lead and execute complex program capture strategies for programs
• Mapping relevant programs and contract vehicles to Arc's powertrain and power distribution capabilities, including emerging vehicles like Golden Fleet
• Guiding business strategy using market research, advisor networks, and a command of the broader competitive landscape

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred
• 7+ years of experience in a strategic role in a high-velocity environment, with exposure to defense, maritime, aerospace, or robotics industries
• Demonstrated track record of closing deals, winning programs, and forming high-value partnerships with public and private sector entities
• Strong understanding of defense procurement pathways and the Defense Industrial Base
• Eligible for security clearance as needed
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and concisely
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity and building a function from scratch at a fast but sustainable pace
• Ability to travel regularly (approximately 20–30%)

Qualifications

• Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor
• Experience in strategy consulting
• Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain
• Direct experience engaging with government program offices (e.g., PEO USC, PMS 406, NAVSEA)
• Familiarity with autonomy, robotics, and maritime systems
• Comfortable pushing at a fast but sustainable pace
• Enthusiasm for boating and the water

Benefits

• Salary: $175,000 + deal based eligibility
• Highly competitive equity grants are included with full-time offers, as well as semi-annual bonuses tied to your impact, not just your tenure
• Top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
• Healthcare benefits — 99% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision
• Parental leave — 14 weeks fully paid for birthing and non-birthing parents
• Generous time off — Highly competitive PTO with an opportunity to earn more time with tenure
• Income protection — Life and disability insurance for all employees
• Retail retirement savings — Traditional and Roth 401(k) access
• Water fund — $500 for you to spend each year to get out on the water, however you choose
• Professional development — $500 annual reimbursement for professional development and a monthly AI stipend
• Safety support — Annual reimbursement for PPE, ergonomic equipment, and anything that ensures we keep our crew safe
• Captain training — Training and access to take Arcboats out with friends and family
• Office perks — Daily lunches, snacks, and good coffee while onsite
• Relocation assistance — Available depending on role eligibility.