Business Development Director, Satellites - TS​/SCI Clearance

Business Development Director, Satellites - TS/SCI Clearance

Chantilly, VA

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Rocket Lab’s Business Development team is responsible for connecting customers across government and commercial sectors with our industry leading mission solutions spanning launch and space systems. They work closely with new and existing customers to understand their needs and develop tailored solutions to deliver their missions.

Building and maintaining relationships with customers and internally with engineering and operations teams is at the core of our Business Development team. They have their fingers on the pulse of the space industry and are driven to deliver results for our customers and our business.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, SATELLITES – TS/SCI CLEARANCE

Based at Rocket Lab's site in Chantilly, VA, as the Business Development Director, Satellites, you will drive Rocket Lab’s growth in the satellite market. You will work with a range of customers, but primarily focused on national security opportunities. Your role will involve identifying and engaging with potential clients, developing strategic partnerships, and leading efforts to secure contracts that expand our market share in this rapidly growing sector.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead business development initiatives focused on satellite solutions for defense applications
• Develop and execute capture strategies for securing large defense or civil space contracts, including those with government agencies and prime contractors
• Engage with key customer stakeholders to build and maintain long‑term relationships, ensuring Rocket Lab’s solutions align with their evolving needs
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to prepare and deliver compelling proposals that meet customer requirements and win new business
• Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform and adapt our business development strategies
• Grow existing business opportunities and nurture relationships with existing customers to develop additional business opportunities
• Create new business opportunities and relationships by presenting Rocket Lab’s capabilities/experience to provide satellite solutions – including bus offerings and complete satellites to meet mission requirements
• Lead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new business
• Develop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment, efficiency, and collaboration, including coordinating with stakeholders
• Represent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings
• Travel as needed for business opportunities
• Other duties as assigned or required

YOU’LL BRING THESE

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 12+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sector
• In-depth knowledge of government acquisition processes, government contracting, and the national security landscape
• Proven track record of securing large (>$20M) contracts and managing strategic relationships within the aerospace industry
• Active TS/SCI security…