Business Development Manager - Advanced Capability R&D (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia) en QinetiQ Security & Defence Contractors

QinetiQ is a global technology and engineering company that exists to protect lives and secure the future. With more than 8,000 employees worldwide - including 800+ here in Australia - we deliver mission-critical services and systems to Defence, national security, and essential industry.

Following a strategic redesign, we’ve sharpened our focus and are investing in the future - starting with the people who will help shape it.

If you're driven by purpose, passionate about solving complex problems, and ready to make a real impact - there’s never been a better time to join us.

With a presence in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada and Germany, we bring global expertise to local challenges, helping build Australia’s sovereign industrial capability for the future.

We are excited to invite applications from enthusiastic business development professionals from across Australia for this Advanced Capability R&D oriented role.

Reporting to the Strategic Capability Director this role will be responsible for contributing to the delivery of in year new business performance targets and work as part of the Advanced Capability Research & Development Team.

The Business Development Manager – Advanced Capability R&D will be accountable for:

• Prospecting emerging opportunities through proactive market intelligence and early stakeholder engagement, particularly where novel engineering, science and technology concepts have potential to mature into Defence projects.
• Maintaining and cultivating stakeholder relationships, including with Defence delivery agencies, capability managers, prime contractors and the wider research and innovation ecosystem.
• Managing the business development lifecycle including lead generation, qualification, sales pipeline management, and accurate order forecast reporting to support organisational planning.
• Conducting competitor and market analysis to identify technological differentiators and refine our value proposition against key Australian and allied offerings.
• Developing and executing capture plans for tenders across the advanced capability research and development domain or adjacent domains, including win-theme development, risk mitigation and value-for-money positioning for a variety of program types and service offerings.
• Leading/supporting bid/no-bid decision processes, preparing comprehensive analyses in accordance with corporate policy and Defence tender protocols.
• Partnering with technical, legal and commercial teams to secure favourable outcomes, while maintaining full compliance with export controls and security clearances.

We’re looking for people with curiosity, drive and a ‘make things happen’ approach – professionals who thrive on solving complex technical challenges, enjoy collaboration with engineers and scientists, and take pride in delivering outcomes that advance Defence capability.

As a suitably experienced and well-rounded Business Development professional, the Business Development Manager – Advanced Capability R&D will ideally bring:

• An engineering, scientific, or technical background with the ability to engage credibly with Defence stakeholders, researchers and technology developers.
• An understanding of ADF acquisition cycles, sustainment planning, technical regulations and Defence contracting frameworks.
• Demonstrated performance in business development within advanced capability research and development, or adjacent technology-intensive domains (e.g. aerospace, systems engineering, emerging tech).
• Proven ability to manage end-to-end sales processes, including lead generation, pipeline development, sales forecasting, and order reporting.
• The ability to translate Defence policy and strategic guidance into actionable capture and account strategies.
• A proven track record of leading or contributing within cross-discipline capture teams that integrate engineering, research, and commercial expertise.
• Proficiency in structuring/ supporting the structure of multi-variant commercial models, risk-reward scenarios and cost-benefit analyses for Defence programs.
• Exceptional engagement and negotiation skills, with the ability to interface confidently with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in business development/capture within an Australian Defence prime, systems integrator, research organisation or adjacent industry with a record of business winning.
• Exposure to consultancy or advisory services, client account management, or leading high-volume tender responses will be viewed favourably.

Due to the nature of the role, applicants must be eligible for Australian Defence security clearance. Current security clearance is advantageous.

Whilst applications must be made online, confidential enquiries are welcome and may be directed to Roz Byrne, Talent Lead via email; [email protected]

Applications will close on 26th September 2025 

Looking for an Employer with Benefits?

At QinetiQ, our competitive remuneration and benefits package supports your evolving needs throughout your career.   You’ll share in the company’s success, and be rewarded for your own. We’ll invest in your professional development and provide an inclusive environment for you to succeed.

Some of our benefits include:

• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Flexible work
• Purchased leave program & loyalty leave

• Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave

• Annual incentive scheme
• Complimentary salary continuance insurance
• Annual volunteering leave with Operation Give Back
• Relaxed dress code

A full list of our employee benefits and further information can be found here: 

https://www.qinetiq.com/en-au/careers/benefits

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As the defence industry in Australia grows, it is an exciting time to join QinetiQ. What the company looks like today will be different to that of tomorrow as we navigate an ever changing world. To innovate for our customers' advantage we value the need for diversity of thought in everything we do. We provide a flexible and inclusive environment where our people can bring their whole selves to work, meaningfully contribute and have equal opportunity to succeed. We actively seek applications from people who come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Aligned with our Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Reconciliation Action Plan, we also encourage applications from women, veterans and First Nations people. 

QinetiQ conducts pre-employment screening, including but not limited to identity verification and police checks, for all preferred candidates.