Head of Sales & Commercial - Aerospace

Job Description:

We're delighted to be working with an exceptional aerospace component repair specialist that has achieved something truly remarkable - growing from £10 million to £30 million turnover in just three years. This isn't just growth; it's transformation.

As a key supplier to Rolls Royce, our client sits at the heart of the aerospace industry, specialising in critical engine component repairs for the Trent fleet - from the 700 series through to the latest XWB engines.

Why is this opportunity special?

• You'll be joining a company that has doubled its sales output and more than doubled its footprint in the last 18 months
• Part of a tight-knit senior management team (6-7 people) where your voice genuinely matters
• Real influence over business direction across all functions, not just commercial

What You'll Be Doing:

Commercial Excellence

• Lead complex commercial negotiations with major aerospace customers
• Navigate sophisticated contract structures, including Rolls Royce's unique contract accounting methodology
• Renegotiate multi-year agreements, moving away from traditional 5-year fixed contracts
• Manage pricing strategies that demonstrate repair value versus new component alternatives

Business Development

• Develop new opportunities within the gas turbine sector (aerospace and industrial)
• Work with customers who typically approach the company for their unique capabilities
• Manage diverse sales cycles ranging from 2-3 months to over a year
• Support regulatory approval processes for new customer programs

Strategic Relationship Management

• Manage the complex relationship with Rolls Royce as both shareholder and primary customer (80% of business)
• Work directly with Rolls Royce overhaul bases and senior stakeholders
• Navigate board-level relationships with diplomacy and commercial acumen

What We're Looking For

Essential Experience:

• Proven commercial track record with complex negotiations and contract management
• B2B sales experience within regulated industries (aerospace, defense, automotive, or similar high-stakes environments)
• Large corporation experience - you understand how major companies think and operate
• Demonstrable wins - we want to hear about your significant commercial successes with specific examples and values

What Would Make You Stand Out:

Experience working with Rolls Royce or similar tier-1 aerospace customers

Understanding of aerospace industry dynamics, regulations, and approval processes

Background in service-based selling rather than traditional product sales

Knowledge of repair versus OEM new commercial models

Experience with long-term contract structures and lifecycle management

Personal Qualities:

Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building skills

Strong analytical abilities to understand complex commercial structures

Comfortable working at board level with senior stakeholders

Collaborative approach - you'll thrive in a small, dynamic management team

Business acumen with ability to influence strategy beyond just commercial activities

What's In It For You?

Exceptional Compensation:

Base Salary: Circa £80,000 (depending on experience)

Performance Bonus: 20% of base salary based on company performance

Bonus Potential: Can exceed 20% when the company outperforms targets

Career Development That Matters:

Strategic Influence: Direct involvement in shaping business strategy and direction

Cross-Functional Impact: Input on everything from HR policy to health & safety initiatives

Daily Leadership: Part of daily management meetings where every voice counts

Growth Trajectory: Significant advancement opportunities as the business continues its impressive expansion