Market Development Executive (MDE)

Job Summary

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Market Development Executive (MDE) based in the United States. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of mission-critical communications within the U.S. Navy and defense ecosystem.

Accountabilities

• Act as a senior strategic leader responsible for shaping market opportunities, strengthening defense relationships, and influencing future naval technology adoption.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and senior representative across U.S. Navy organizations, supporting capability development, modernization initiatives, and strategic technology adoption.
• Influence future requirements by engaging early in experimentation, prototyping, operational concepts, and acquisition planning activities.
• Develop and execute market development strategies aligned with naval modernization priorities, tactical communications needs, and emerging mission requirements.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior Navy leaders, program offices, warfare centers, operational commands, and defense industry partners.
• Position advanced networking and communications capabilities as key enablers for resilient maritime operations, distributed networks, and future warfare environments.
• Collaborate with internal sales, engineering, product, capture, and executive teams to ensure unified messaging and strategic pursuit strategies.
• Provide market intelligence and strategic insights on Navy programs, acquisition pathways, technology trends, and competitive landscapes.
• Support the transition of strategically shaped opportunities into business development pipelines.
• Represent the organization at defense forums, industry events, demonstrations, and strategic engagements.
• Travel as needed to maintain strong customer relationships and support mission-critical engagements.

Requirements

• The ideal candidate is a senior defense professional with extensive U.S. Navy experience, strong government relationships, and a proven ability to influence complex technology adoption strategies.
• You should combine technical understanding with executive-level communication skills and strategic business judgment.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in strategic relationship management, account management, government relations, or defense industry business development.
• Significant experience supporting U.S. Navy modernization efforts, C5ISR programs, tactical communications, electronic warfare, or related mission areas.
• Established and verifiable network of senior-level contacts across Navy organizations, commands, and acquisition communities.
• Strong understanding of naval operational environments, communications architectures, spectrum operations, and mission requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to shape requirements, influence stakeholders, and support major defense programs.
• Exceptional executive communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to operate independently, manage complex stakeholder environments, and serve as a credible strategic advisor.
• Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance or ability to obtain one within 12 months.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen due to government contract requirements.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience as a former Navy officer, senior government civilian, or defense industry executive is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with maritime communications, shipboard systems, joint operations, and defense acquisition processes is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $200,000 - $280,000 USD, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
• Fully remote work flexibility depending on location, with preference for proximity to key U.S. Navy commands.
• Opportunity to support high-impact defense and national security missions.
• Work on advanced communication technologies shaping future military operations.
• Collaborative environment with experienced professionals across engineering, sales, and strategic growth teams.
• Opportunities to participate in industry events, demonstrations, and mission-focused engagements.
• Comprehensive benefits package and employee-focused workplace culture.
• Career growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding technology organization.