Business Development, Air Force

Korn Ferry has partnered with our client on their search for the role, Business Development, Air Force. Overview A Fortune 200 industrial technology company is seeking a business development leader to drive growth across U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force accounts . This role will be instrumental in shaping and executing a forward-leaning federal growth strategy, with a focus on embedding advanced materials, technologies, and capabilities into next-generation defense platforms. Key Responsibilities Own and lead the Air Force & Space Force growth strategy , aligning enterprise capabilities with mission priorities across both services Build and expand relationships across: Major Commands (MAJCOMs) Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (LCMC) Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Force stakeholders and acquisition community Drive early-stage positioning and specification influence , ensuring technologies are integrated at the platform and program level Partner closely with prime contractors, OEMs, and platform providers to accelerate adoption and scale across programs of record Identify, qualify, and capture new business opportunities aligned to safety, sustainment, and advanced capability areas Translate customer requirements into actionable internal strategies across a highly matrixed organization Deliver compelling executive-level briefings, proposals, and strategic engagement plans Maintain awareness of market trends, competitive positioning, and evolving Air & Space priorities Candidate Profile Proven federal growth leader with deep experience across Air Force and/or Space Force ecosystems Strong understanding of: Requirements development and specification processes How technologies are adopted through primes and platform integrators Demonstrated success influencing at: Program Executive Offices (PEOs) Labs and innovation organizations Prime contractor and OEM partner networks Ability to operate effectively in a matrixed, enterprise environment and translate strategy into execution Executive presence with strong communication, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills Basic Qualifications ~5+ years of experience engaging U.S. Air Force and/or U.S. Space Force customers Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance Additional Considerations Background in advanced materials, manufacturing, aerospace, or defense technologies preferred Experience supporting platform-level integration and/or product adoption strategies Track record of achieving revenue growth and capturing new business Location & Travel Flexible U.S. location (DC metro, Dayton, Huntsville, or similar hubs preferred) Up to ~50% travel Why This Role This is a high-impact, build-and-shape opportunity to influence how a globally recognized company expands its footprint across Air Force and Space Force missions , with the ability to engage early in the requirements process and drive long-term program adoption. #J-18808-Ljbffr