The Role

We're seeking an experienced Business Development Lead to drive our ambitious growth strategy within the defence and security. This is a pivotal role that will shape the future of our specialist consultancy, requiring someone who can seamlessly blend communications expertise with proven business development skills and deep Ministry of Defence relationships.

Reporting to: CEO

Location: UK-based with hybrid working (1 day per week in office, 1-2 days at industry events in London/Bristol/regional locations, remainder home-based)

Hours: Full-time (37.5-40 hours) or part-time (30 hours) - flexible arrangements considered

Essential: Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle

What You'll Do

Drive Strategic Growth

• Lead consultancy sales initiatives to identify client challenges and position our solutions effectively
• Develop and execute strategic business development plans to achieve ambitious growth targets
• Generate new service ideas and innovative approaches that set us apart in the market
• Support innovation initiatives to identify new revenue streams and competitive advantages

Build and Leverage Relationships

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders within Industry and with the Ministry of Defence capability development programmes and communications teams
• Attend networking events, conferences, and industry gatherings to generate new opportunities (1-2 days per week)
• Conduct discovery calls with potential clients to understand their specific needs and challenges
• Manage the full sales cycle from initial contact through to proposal development and deal closure

Strategic Market Intelligence

• Feed market knowledge and insights back to the delivery team to inform service development
• Identify opportunities for refined or new service offerings based on client interactions
• Collaborate with our delivery team to develop creative solutions and accurate commercial pricing
• Create compelling proposal documents tailored to client requirements
• You do not need bid writing experience (but would be a bonus if you do have it)

What You'll Bring

Essential Experience

• Proven track record in communications consultancy, PR, marketing, or training services
• Demonstrable experience working with the Ministry of Defence with deep understanding of defence procurement processes
• Established relationships within defence capability development programmes and communications teams
• Successful consultancy sales experience with track record of meeting targets
• Self-starter mentality with entrepreneurial mindset and ability to work independently

Key Skills

• Outstanding relationship-building and networking abilities
• Excellent presentation and negotiation skills
• Strategic thinking with proven ability to identify and develop new opportunities
• Results-driven approach with strong commercial acumen
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Security clearance eligible (or ability to obtain)

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: £55,000 - £65,000 (depending on experience)
• Performance bonus: Significant earning potential based on results
• Flexible working: Hybrid model with part-time options considered
• Strategic impact: Direct line to CEO with high visibility across the business
• Professional development: Support from expert delivery team and growth opportunities
• Plus benefits

About Canny Comms

Canny Comms is a specialist communications and marketing consultancy focused exclusively on defence and security. We're passionate about using our skills to support the military and its stakeholders, helping technical and complex organisations successfully engage with their audiences to realise their goals.

What Makes Us Different

Our unique team combines deep expertise in communications and marketing with genuine understanding of science, technology, and defence operations. This allows us to rapidly understand both complex technologies and operational requirements, ensuring we shape and align messaging that truly resonates with audiences.

Our Expertise

We're not generalists - we're defence and security specialists. We know the ins and outs of the industry and the Ministry of Defence inside out. This means we can identify and analyse audiences quickly and accurately, ensuring communications influence them effectively.

Our Values

We're a purpose-driven team, compelled to use our skills to ensure the people who protect and serve our country are well equipped. We're recognised with a silver-level Armed Forces Covenant award for our commitment to the military community, and we actively support veterans, reservists, and military spouses.

Our Culture

• Passionate about technology and supporting serving personnel
• Creative in constantly seeking more effective ways to engage audiences
• Curious - always looking to learn, challenge the status quo, and innovate

Ready to Shape Our Growth?

This is more than a business development role - it's an opportunity to be instrumental in the growth of a leading specialist consultancy that makes a real difference to those who serve our country.

If you have the defence relationships, communications expertise, and commercial drive we're looking for, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter explaining how your experience aligns with our requirements. For more information on the role, please contact hr@canny-comms.co.uk

Canny Comms is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We particularly welcome applications from veterans, reservists, and military spouses.