Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Walton, Kentucky and Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT).
We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems.
The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.
About the Role:
We are seeking a highly driven and commercially astute Business Development Manager – North America (Military & Defense) to lead our expansion into high-value, technically demanding defense and aerospace markets.
This is a pivotal role focused on identifying, securing, and growing strategic opportunities across military and government programs. You will play a key role in positioning Zotefoams as a trusted engineered solutions partner within complex defense supply chains.
Operating remotely across North America with frequent travel, this role offers the opportunity to influence long-term program success and drive sustained commercial growth in a challenging and rewarding sector.
Role Responsibilities:
Lead business development activity across North America within military and defense sectors, driving sustainable revenue growth
Develop and execute a focused go-to-market strategy aligned with global commercial objectives
Identify, manage, and convert opportunities within military tenders and government procurement frameworks
Build and maintain strong relationships with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and key government stakeholders
Position Zotefoams early in design and specification phases to secure long-term program inclusion
Generate and manage a high-quality pipeline of opportunities, ensuring consistent conversion and accurate CRM reporting
Collaborate with technical and engineering teams to deliver tailored, high-performance solutions
Partner cross-functionally with operations and planning teams to align customer demand with production capability
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and emerging technologies to inform strategic decision-making
What you'll need:
Proven track record in business development within defense, aerospace, or highly regulated technical industries
Strong experience navigating military procurement processes, tenders, and long sales cycles
Demonstrated success in building and converting strategic pipelines in complex stakeholder environments
Experience engaging with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and government bodies
Solid understanding of defense supply chains and procurement frameworks
Knowledge of engineered materials or technical product applications is advantageous
Eligibility to obtain (or hold) security clearance for defense-related programs
What are we looking for?
A results-driven, proactive individual with strong commercial instinct and strategic focus
Confident communicator with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and decision-makers
Highly organized with exceptional pipeline and project management capability
Resilient and adaptable, able to thrive in complex, high-stakes environments
A collaborative team player who can work effectively across multiple functions
Someone motivated by challenge, growth, and delivering measurable impact
Why Join Us?
At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Our Values
Courage - The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.
Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
Respect - Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.
Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees
Skills Required
- Proven track record in business development within defense, aerospace, or highly regulated technical industries
- Strong experience navigating military procurement processes, tenders, and long sales cycles
- Demonstrated success building and converting strategic pipelines in complex stakeholder environments
- Experience engaging with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and government bodies
- Solid understanding of defense supply chains and procurement frameworks
- Eligibility to obtain or hold security clearance for defense-related programs
- Knowledge of engineered materials or technical product applications
- Strong commercial instinct, confident communicator, and ability to influence senior stakeholders
- Highly organized with exceptional pipeline and project management capability
What We Do
Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, specializing in the manufacture of lightweight, closed-cell, crosslinked foams using a unique, environmentally friendly nitrogen expansion process. The company serves diverse global markets, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, sports and leisure, construction, and the military, providing high-performance materials for a wide range of industrial and consumer applications.
