Market Development Executive (MDE)

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Market Development Executive (MDE) based in the United States.

This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of mission-critical communications within the U.S. Navy and defense ecosystem. You will serve as a strategic advisor, influencing capability development, requirements, and modernization initiatives. The position focuses on building long-term partnerships with senior defense stakeholders and driving adoption of advanced networking solutions. You will operate at the intersection of technology, strategy, and mission operations, helping define future naval capabilities. This is a high-impact role for a defense industry leader who thrives on relationship building, strategic thinking, and early market influence. Working closely with engineering, sales, and leadership teams, you will help transform emerging opportunities into meaningful mission outcomes.

Accountabilities:: The Market Development Executive will act as a senior strategic leader responsible for shaping market opportunities, strengthening defense relationships, and influencing future naval technology adoption. This role requires a combination of strategic vision, industry expertise, and the ability to operate autonomously with senior government stakeholders.

Serve as a trusted advisor and senior representative across U.S. Navy organizations, supporting capability development, modernization initiatives, and strategic technology adoption.

Influence future requirements by engaging early in experimentation, prototyping, operational concepts, and acquisition planning activities.

Develop and execute market development strategies aligned with naval modernization priorities, tactical communications needs, and emerging mission requirements.

Build and maintain relationships with senior Navy leaders, program offices, warfare centers, operational commands, and defense industry partners.

Position advanced networking and communications capabilities as key enablers for resilient maritime operations, distributed networks, and future warfare environments.

Collaborate with internal sales, engineering, product, capture, and executive teams to ensure unified messaging and strategic pursuit strategies.

Provide market intelligence and strategic insights on Navy programs, acquisition pathways, technology trends, and competitive landscapes.

Support the transition of strategically shaped opportunities into business development pipelines.

Represent the organization at defense forums, industry events, demonstrations, and strategic engagements.

Travel as needed to maintain strong customer relationships and support mission-critical engagements.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate is a senior defense professional with extensive U.S. Navy experience, strong government relationships, and a proven ability to influence complex technology adoption strategies. You should combine technical understanding with executive-level communication skills and strategic business judgment.

Minimum of 8 years of experience in strategic relationship management, account management, government relations, or defense industry business development.

Significant experience supporting U.S. Navy modernization efforts, C5ISR programs, tactical communications, electronic warfare, or related mission areas.

Established and verifiable network of senior-level contacts across Navy organizations, commands, and acquisition communities.

Strong understanding of naval operational environments, communications architectures, spectrum operations, and mission requirements.

Demonstrated ability to shape requirements, influence stakeholders, and support major defense programs.

Exceptional executive communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Ability to operate independently, manage complex stakeholder environments, and serve as a credible strategic advisor.

Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance or ability to obtain one within 12 months.

Must be a U.S. Citizen due to government contract requirements.

Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Experience as a former Navy officer, senior government civilian, or defense industry executive is highly desirable.

Familiarity with maritime communications, shipboard systems, joint operations, and defense acquisition processes is a plus.

Benefits:

Competitive salary range of $200,000 - $280,000 USD , depending on experience, qualifications, and location.

Fully remote work flexibility depending on location, with preference for proximity to key U.S. Navy commands.

Opportunity to support high-impact defense and national security missions.

Work on advanced communication technologies shaping future military operations.

Collaborative environment with experienced professionals across engineering, sales, and strategic growth teams.

Opportunities to participate in industry events, demonstrations, and mission-focused engagements.

Comprehensive benefits package and employee-focused workplace culture.

Career growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding technology organization.

How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!  Why Apply Through Jobgether?    Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.     #LI-CL1