Business Development Manager

Thorn SDS GmbH, based in Darmstadt, Germany, is seeking an experienced Sales/ Business Development Manager.

For over 25 years Thorn SDS has supported earth observation and space exploration missions with our technical expertise and experience in spacecraft operations and system engineering, ground segment operations and training services.

As our Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for managing and developing the growing business Thorn SDS has within ESA and EUMETSAT, and the wider German Space industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify, prioritise and pursue new business opportunities within ESA and EUMETSAT.
• Work with the CEO and support the expansion of Thorn SDS into the wider German Space industry and feed into the wider business development strategy.
• Develop a pipeline of new business opportunities to ensure growth targets are achieved.
• Manage the full sales cycle-from initial contact to negotiation and contract signature.
• Ensure the retention of any current contracts and liase with customers and key stakeholders.
• Support preparation of offers, proposals, and customer presentations
• Actively support customer meetings, workshops, industry events, and trade fairs
• Maintain and manage sales activities, opportunities, and pipelines using a CRM software.

To join us you will need:

Essential

• A deep understanding of satellite systems, space missions, or space data applications.
• Demonstrated success in sales or business development roles within the space sector
• Existing network with key actors in the European space ecosystem.
• A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in B2B sales, account management or business development, ideally within:

o Telecommunications

o IT or Network Services

o Satellite communications or

o Similar technology-driven environments

• Fluent in German and English (mandatory)
• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills
• Structured, proactive, and customer-oriented mindset
• Ability to understand technical solutions and translate them into clear customer value propositions
• Willingness to travel within Germany

Desirable

• Strong relationships within ESA and EUMETSAT
• Strong relationships or previous experience at a prime within the German Space Industry
• Bid writing/ management experience

The benefits you'll receive:

• Supported training & development.
• 30 days annual leave (20 + 10 days)
• Free, onsite parking
• Employee wellbeing scheme
• Employer pension contributions
• Significant personal development opportunities
• The opportunity to take significant responsibility from Day 1

Apply

If you have the expertise to support this requirement and are eager to make an impact in a critical role, please apply today!

All applicants must already hold the Right to Work in Germany as sponsorship cannot be provided for this role.

The working language for this role is English, and all applications / CVs must be submitted in English.

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Department Head Office Support Role Business Development Manager - Germany Locations Darmstadt Remote status Hybrid Employment type Full-time Contract Permanent