Business Development & Account Manager

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the Business Development and Account Manager at Thales will be responsible for growing the Thales business in Eastern Africa and manages all aspects of customer relationships, with a primary focus on Aerospace, Defense and Security markets. This role involves developing strategic partnerships, understanding customer procurement requirements, and aligning customer needs with the appropriate Thales Business Lines.

Key responsibilities:

• Grow Thales business in the Eastern African countries;
• Comprehensive, up to date knowledge of Thales product portfolio offerings to prospects and Government customers;
• Understand customer missions, operational environments and priorities, broadens their understanding of Thales solutions in connection with their missions, and provides customer/market information to relevant GBU’s/BL’s;
• Promotion of Thales products portfolio to Government customers and end-users;
• Promoting Thales’ Aerospace, Defence & Security products, systems, and solutions, while effectively communicating the company’s vision and value proposition;
• Conduct business development activities and identify growth opportunities within the customer landscape;
• Develop and maintain long-term partnerships with key customers and strategic partners;
• Define, implement, and monitor account objectives and performance targets;
• Prepare, maintain, and execute Capture Plans;
• Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction and long-term engagement;
• Act as a key interface between customers and internal stakeholders across Thales Business Lines.

Requirements:

• Bachelor or Master in sales, marketing or business administration
• 5-10 years of international experience in a comparable role within the aerospace, defence, security, or related industry;
• Experience working with public procurement entities (military or civilian);
• Strong understanding of the Aerospace and Defence and Security markets;
• Demonstrated customer focus with the ability to understand operational needs and translate them into business opportunities;
• Results-oriented, self-driven, and highly disciplined professional;
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills;
• Proven ability to build partnerships and lead cross-functional collaboration;
• Fluent English (C2 level, both written and spoken).