About the Job
Dawn Aerospace builds reusable, high-cadence space transportation systems. Since 2021, we have delivered non-toxic, refuellable propulsion systems to customers globally, with hardware now operating on over 50 spacecraft. Concurrently, our rocket-powered spaceplanes are actively breaking aviation records and being de...
We have achieved these goals through a culture of relentless innovation and a drive to deliver results for our customers, while expanding the value we all get from space.
To support our expansion in Germany, we are establishing a presence in Dusseldorf or Bremen and are seeking a talented Head of Defence Sale in Germany to lead this strategic initiative. This is a unique opportunity to combine technical insight with strategic commercial leadership in one of the most exciting and fast...
Key Responsibilities
To support our expansion in Germany, we are establishing a presence in Dusseldorf or Bremen and are seeking a talented Head of Defence Sale in Germany to lead this strategic initiative. This is a unique opportunity to combine technical insight with strategic commercial leadership in one of the most exciting and fast-growing sectors of the space industry.
This role reports to the Chief Revenue Office, based in Delft, The Netherlands.
Own the commercial rollout for Dawn Aerospace in Germany and be accountable for signed contract value, pipeline quality, and long-term market position.
Engage directly with prospective customers and industry partners to understand their challenges and identify where Dawn can deliver value. Identify, qualify, and prioritize opportunities in commercial, national security, and research sectors.
Understand and articulate the technical capabilities of the Dawn products. Translate customer needs into technically viable and cost-effective mission or vehicle acquisition proposals.
Activate and expand senior-level relationships across major government programs, prime contractors, and research institutions.
Lead complex, multi-stakeholder deal cycles involving high-volume component and services sales, and sovereign capability development.
Establish Dawn Aerospace as a recognized capability within German national security, civil, and research agencies.
Identify and establish strategic operating locations, partners, and facilities for sovereign operations.
Drive negotiation of commercial, technical, and governance terms alongside legal, engineering, and operations teams.
Feed regional market intelligence directly into Dawn Aerospace’s global product road map and fleet-expansion strategy.
Required Skills & Abilities
10-15 years of experience in business development, sales, or mission management in aerospace, aviation, deep-tech, or a closely related sector.
Ability to obtain and maintain a German national security clearance (Ü2/Ü3)
Established Network with major stakeholders, including Rheinmetall, OHB, DEU SpCmd, BAAINBw and DLR
Excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills with a customer-first mindset
Proven track record leading complex, long-cycle programmes involving government, institutional, or prime contractor stakeholders.
University degree in management, business, or a related field.
In-depth knowledge of local regulations.
Ability to work independently and make strategic decisions.
Fluency in German and English (written and spoken).
Experience working directly with customers in aerospace research, defense, or government space agencies.
An existing or past security clearance in Germany or other NATO country
Background working with primes, Tier-1 suppliers, or sovereign capability programmes.
A strong understanding of general aerospace principles such as flight mechanics, mission planning, and project lifecycles.
Familiarity with HubSpot, or similar CRM suite.
Ability and willingness to travel both domestically and internationally
Experience in leadership roles.
