SwissDrones is a global leading provider of aerial intelligence solutions for energy infrastructure, emergency & safety and environmental management. We develop, manufacture, and support uncrewed helicopter systems. Main fields of application include aerial surveillance, search & reconnaissance as well as inspection of far-stretching assets. SwissDrones’ uncrewed solutions are designed for the effective replacement of manned helicopter operations at reduced costs, significantly lowered carbon emissions, and with increased safety.

In the context of our global expansion, we are looking for a seasoned

Vice President Business Development Middle East & Africa (MEA) (a)

based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The opportunity
You have good cultural, and business understanding of MEA and bring along experience working for companies with international footprints.

You have a strong sales record and existing transferable network in MEA with corporate and public domain customers. This role offers the opportunity to shape and drive the adoption of ground-breaking uncrewed aerial capabilities for critical applications.

You will define the go-to-market (GTM) approach for SwissDrones in MEA, setup and grow partnerships, and establish SwissDrones’ presence in this rapidly growing market. You will make business development your priority with strategic targets and customers across the region and oversee the end-to-end sales cycle. You will build and manage a network of local business partners. Reporting to the Global Commercial Vice President, you will be working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Define GTM approach for MEA in close collaboration with the Global Commercial Vice President
• Generate a business footprint and close deals strategically
• Shape and negotiate proposals and commercial terms
• Along with the market development, establish and implement strategic account development plan and key account management approach
• Expand SwissDrones sales network by adding additional sales channels through strategic advisors, business partners, system integrators and agents
• Define sales targets jointly with the HQ and own the sales pipeline for the MEA market
• The key for this role is to understand the market needs, establish fitting matches between our products/services and the customers’ requirements and define the path to successful sales transactions

Your Impact

• This autonomous role will enable you to display your entrepreneurial spirit to grow the MEA market share for one of the most advanced and fast-scaling ventures in the commercial drone industry.
• You will build a MEA sales force in a unique and disruptive market segment from scratch.
• You will play a crucial role in defining our GTM plan and in ensuring customer success to fuel business growth in a disruptive industry.

Your Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in business development and sales of complex products/solutions with corporate and/or public domain customers
• Experience working in MEA is a must
• Prior background from business and/or engineering or equivalent in aviation, UAV, electronics, robotics or any related industries will be highly desirable
• Proficiency in English and Arabic is a must. Knowledge of French would be an advantage to develop some African markets
• Track record of sales to public safety and/or law enforcement entities preferrable
• Strong networker, self-resilient, resourceful and team player with “I will get it done” attitude.
• Excellent communication skills, including C-level communication
• Knowledge of UAV regulations (for civil use and public safety) in MEA is an advantage
• Willingness to travel across MEA, Africa and occasionally to Europe

If you meet the above requirements and are a passionate and capable individual who wants to be part of a world-class team to shape the future of aerial intelligence, we look forward to receiving your application.

***Please note that your application documents will be processed through the Breezy.hr platform as part of our application process. Breezy.hr ensures that your data is protected and processed in accordance with applicable data protection regulations.***