Business Development Manager

we're seeking a Business Development Manager to drive strategic growth, build customer relationships, and secure new commercial and government opportunities.

This role sits at the intersection of aerospace innovation, customer engagement, and strategic execution. You'll help define how iRocket engages with launch customers, government agencies, and industry partners - turning vision into measurable impact.

- Identify and develop new business opportunities in the commercial, civil, and defense space sectors - Manage the full business development lifecycle - from prospecting and pipeline management to negotiation and contract execution - Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, customers, and partners - Develop and deliver presentations, proposals, and responses to solicitations (RFPs, RFIs, BAAs, SBIR/STTRs) - Collaborate with internal teams (engineering, finance, strategy) to align customer needs with company capabilities - Support partnership development, strategic collaborations, and potential MOU or JV discussions - Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and policy developments in the space industry - Represent iRocket at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities - Contribute to strategic planning and long-term growth initiatives

- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (MBA or technical degree preferred) - 5+ years of experience in business development, sales, or strategy (aerospace, defense, or tech sector preferred) - Proven track record of managing high-value partnerships or contracts - Familiarity with government contracting, proposal processes, and funding mechanisms (NASA, DoD, DARPA, etc.) - Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills - Ability to build trust and maintain relationships with technical and executive stakeholders - Entrepreneurial mindset - comfortable operating in a fast-paced, mission-driven startup environment - Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills