Strategic Consultant – European Defense (XR/VR Simulation) Description We are looking for a high-level Strategic Consultant to spearhead our entry into the European and NATO military simulation market. Our focus is on revolutionary XR/VR training solutions for crew-handled weaponry. This is a "Door Opener" role. You will bridge the gap between our engineering team and the procurement offices of European MoDs (Ministries of Defence) and NATO agencies. You are a veteran who speaks the language of the operator but understands the bureaucracy of the acquisition officer. You will be the external face of the company at key trade shows and high-level briefings Requirements Military Background: Must have served as an officer or senior NCO. A background in infantry, armored corps, or weapons instruction is highly valued to ensure credibility when discussing crew-handled weaponry. Industry "In-Between": Post-military experience at a major European defense integrator (e.g., Rheinmetall, Thales, Saab, Leonardo, or KNDS). NATO Fluency: Deep understanding of NATO procurement processes and the role of agencies like NSPA (NATO Support and Procurement Agency). The Network: A "warm" list of contacts within European national procurement agencies (e.g., French DGA, German BAAINBw, UK DE&S). Responsibilities Lead Generation: Identify and secure introductory meetings with "User Representatives" and "Procurement Officers" across NATO member states. Strategic Positioning: Advise on how to position XR/VR weaponry training as a solution for specific European initiatives (e.g., ammunition shortages, "Green" training initiatives, or rapid mobilization). The External Face: Represent the company as a domain expert at key events (e.g., Eurosatory, Enforce Tac, ITEC). Deal Architecture: Navigate the "Retainer Success Fee" structure to bring deals from initial interest to signed contract. Nice to have Multilingual (English is a must; French, German, or Polish is a massive asset). Familiarity with US FMS (Foreign Military Sales) or ITAR—while secondary, this helps with NATO interoperability discussions. Working conditions Type: Independent Consultant Agreement. Comp: Competitive monthly retainer significant percentage-based success fee on closed contracts. Location: Europe-based (Remote), with easy access to major defense hubs. Possibly "Ideal candidate": https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfawkes/ past military service past work in training & sim for military companies current work as consultant advisor in the space strong network of connections in the domain