VP Strategy - Defense

About the Company

We are collaborating with a well-funded, early-stage European defense technology firm that is developing cutting-edge capabilities in software, hardware, and advanced manufacturing. The company was established by a highly accomplished leadership team with extensive experience in defense technology, venture capital, and rapidly growing technology businesses. Having recently secured substantial investment from leading global investors, the company is poised to become a significant player in Europe's evolving defense sector.

This is a unique chance to join at the foundational stages and work closely with the founders on the company's most crucial strategic objectives. The business operates in a dynamic landscape and seeks an individual who can contribute to shaping growth strategies, forging key alliances, navigating complex defense ecosystems, and supporting long-term expansion throughout Europe.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate directly with founders and senior management on high-priority strategic projects.
• Assist in defining and implementing the company's growth strategy across European markets.
• Cultivate relationships with defense institutions, government officials, industrial partners, suppliers, and other ecosystem participants.
• Identify and assess potential strategic partnerships.
• Support market expansion initiatives into new regions and customer segments.
• Evaluate potential opportunities for acquisitions, mergers, and corporate development.
• Lead cross-functional strategic projects encompassing operations, partnerships, and commercial activities.
• Translate long-term strategic vision into concrete, actionable execution plans.
• Provide market insights on defense industry trends, procurement processes, and competitive landscapes.
• Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the leadership team in a fast-paced and often uncertain environment.

Your Background

• Demonstrated experience in strategy, corporate development, business operations, partnerships, or similar leadership capacities.
• A solid understanding of the defense, aerospace, national security, industrial technology, advanced manufacturing, or related fields.
• Proven ability to engage with senior stakeholders in government, corporate, investment, or regulated sectors.
• A background in consulting, defense technology, major aerospace/defense companies, venture-backed startups, private equity, corporate strategy, or government agencies would be advantageous.
• Possess strong commercial acumen and the ability to pinpoint strategic growth avenues.
• Comfortable working effectively in environments characterized by significant ambiguity and rapid scaling.
• Experience in leading complex, cross-functional initiatives.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
• An entrepreneurial spirit and a readiness to build initiatives from the ground up.

Additional Information

This role is based in Bavaria, Germany, and requires an onsite presence.