Strategic Defence Sector Lead
Bechtle UK is seeking a highly motivated and well-connected individual to lead our expansion into the UK defence sector. This strategic role will focus on building relationships with both public and private organisations engaged in defence-related activities, leveraging Bechtle’s capabilities to deliver secure, compliant, and innovative IT solutions.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the UK Armed Forces or defence industry, with a proven ability to navigate complex procurement environments and engage at senior levels across MOD, defence primes, and Tier 1/Tier 2 suppliers.
Job Role Responsibilities
* Identify and engage with key defence sector organisations, including MOD departments, defence primes (e.g., BAE Systems, Thales, Leonardo), and Tier 1/Tier 2 suppliers.
* Build and manage a pipeline of opportunities across public and private defence-related entities.
* Develop tailored IT solutions aligned with defence sector compliance and operational needs.
* Represent Bechtle UK at industry events such as DSEI, DPRTE and Security & Policing Expo.
* Establish Bechtle UK as a trusted partner within the defence ecosystem through thought leadership and strategic networking.
* Guide Bechtle UK through key defence sector certifications and registrations as required to support approved supply frameworks.
* Ensure alignment with the Procurement Act 2023 and Single Source Contract Regulations (SSCR).
* Work closely with Bechtle UK’s sales, technical, and compliance teams to develop defence-focused capability statements and proposals.
* Contribute to the development of a UK Defence Team within Bechtle, sharing insights and best practices from the field.
Job Requirements
*
o Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, hands-on approach.
o Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, particularly at C-level.
o Ability to translate technical IT capabilities into defence sector value propositions.
o Comfortable navigating ambiguity and complex stakeholder environments.
o Former service in the UK Armed Forces or significant experience in the UK defence industry.
o Strong understanding of MOD procurement processes, defence contracting, and public sector frameworks.
o Existing network of contacts within MOD, defence primes, and supply chain organisations.
What we offer
* Hybrid Working (3 days in/2 days out) after successful probation period which is 3 months
* Competitive Salary
* Location – Flexible across the UK Bechtle offices, with regular travel to customer sites and Bechtle offices.
* Culture – Social events, Supportive, Fun, Hard working.
* Perks – Incentives (holidays, vouchers, lunches, spot prizes).
* Top of the range technology in office and for home working (laptops, screens, latest iPhone, etc)
* Subsidised health care/medical benefits
* Annual Leave – 25-30* days plus B. H’s + optional 2 weeks unpaid. *Increases with time spent
* Progression Plan – training & mentor programme.
Experience
* Degree-level education preferred, ideally with a focus on IT, engineering, or defence studies.
* Relevant certifications (e.g., Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001) are advantageous.
Reports to:
Strategic Accounts Director
Bechtle is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of IT hardware, software and services. Established in 1983, we utilise our European coverage to provide a common platform for procurement across 14 European countries. We provide comprehensive IT solutions ranging from consultation, procurement and delivery of hardware and software, project planning and implementation, system integration, maintenance, training and even the complete on-site operation of IT systems.
Jenny Careless | Human Resources | jenny.careless@bechtle.com | +44 (0) 1249 467935