Senior Business Development Lead – Hivemind (Netherlands)

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a high‑performing Business Development / Account Executive to drive growth for Hivemind Autonomy across the Netherlands, focusing on defence and government customers.

Key responsibilities

• Own and drive the full sales lifecycle for Hivemind opportunities across assigned accounts and territories.
• Develop and execute territory and capture strategies aligned with Shield AI’s long‑term strategic plan.
• Identify, qualify, and shape new business opportunities through deep understanding of customer missions, budgets, and acquisition pathways.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision‑makers, program offices, and influencers across defence and government customers.
• Lead proposal development in partnership with BD Operations and cross‑functional teams.
• Conduct competitive analysis and position Hivemind effectively in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments.
• Partner with Product, Engineering, and Solutions teams to translate customer needs into compelling technical and operational solutions.
• Manage deal progression with rigour, ensuring accurate forecasting and CRM hygiene.
• Represent Shield AI at industry events, conferences, and customer engagements to expand market presence.

Required profile

• 10–15+ years of business development, sales, or capture experience in technically complex domains such as AI/ML, autonomy, SaaS, aerospace or defence.
• Proven track record of owning and closing deals within European government or defence markets.
• Deep understanding of defence acquisition processes and government procurement lifecycle.
• Strong experience developing and executing capture strategies for complex opportunities.
• Technical aptitude to engage credibly with engineering, product, and operational stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or equivalent graduate degree preferred.

Required skills

• AI/ML
• Autonomy
• SaaS
• Unmanned systems (UAS)
• Defence acquisition processes