Aviation Checkpoint Business Manager Marketing - Smiths Detection

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

The Aviation checkpoint Business manager works alongside Commercial and Technology functions and is responsible for driving sustainable growth of passenger checkpoint solutions, such that Smiths Detection can generate profitable business while delivering comprehensive ROI to the customers.

The role has the management responsibility of a cross-functional team that primarily delivers the lanes (tray return systems) business; a critical component of an airport checkpoint operation. The role is expected to perform – individually or with other colleagues, the Product Management function for lanes as well as management of supplier and customer projects and eventually broader checkpoint solutions incorporating other technologies such as body scanners.

The position will be involved in delivery of the lanes offering and required to address immediate challenges with the existing external partners and improve the delivery of the lane product. This includes stronger control and governance over 3rd party suppliers with improved organisation and capability with them as well as within Smiths Detection. The role will need to coordinate internal and external activities to resolve the current issues and ensure a reliable way of delivering lane solutions.

The Aviation checkpoint Business Manager will be responsible for developing and improving the checkpoint roadmap such that it meets anticipated market demands.

Responsibilities Include:

• Own and manage the Product Lifecycle Process (PLP) and business case development.
• Lead structured cross-functional initiatives to solve product challenges across capacity, delivery, quality, and commercial aspects.
• Monitor and analyse the aviation security market, identifying new opportunities, partnerships, and competitive positioning.
• Drive Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) and cost of ownership initiatives to enhance contribution margin and competitiveness.
• Collaborate globally with Commercial, Programmes, Quality, and Technology teams, ensuring checkpoints remain best-in-class.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders — both internally and externally — ensuring long-term business success.

You’ll bring a mix of technical, commercial, and leadership expertise, with the ability to balance operational detail with big-picture strategy. Specifically, you’ll need:

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Management, Marketing, or a related field.

5–8 years’ experience in product or business management, ideally in a technology-driven or project-heavy environment.

Experience in supplier or partner management, with proven ability to resolve escalations and deliver results.

Strong cross-functional experience — understanding of manufacturing, operations, sales, projects, customer service, or R&D.

Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written); knowledge of German is highly desirable.

Strong programme and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Commercial awareness and financial acumen, with experience in cost management and business case development.

Knowledge of SAP and the Microsoft Office suite.

A collaborative, global mindset with the ability to influence stakeholders across cultures and time zones.