About the Role
A growing technology company expanding its commercial presence in the region. Working defence products into government procurement from a standing start. The company is actively expanding its Gulf commercial coverage and Qatar represents the next market in that build-out. It is a rare mandate for someone who wants to own a market rather than inherit one.
The role
- Open Ministry of Defence procurement relationships in Qatar from scratch.
- Lead bids, proposals and tenders through to signature, not just pipeline.
- Support expansion into additional Gulf markets alongside the core Qatar mandate.
- Represent the company at regional and international defence industry events.
- Work directly with product and delivery teams to shape winning proposals.
What you'll bring
- 5+ years business development, sales or procurement experience in defence.
- A demonstrated closed deal: named ministry, value and timeline.
- Fluent English; Arabic is a genuine advantage, not required.
- Comfort with frequent regional and international travel.
- Experience with advanced defence or aerospace technology products is highly desirable.
What's on offer
- A country-opening mandate with direct ownership of a new market.
- A role inside a growing company with regional ambitions.
- Direct exposure to senior leadership shaping Gulf market entry.
Why apply through Guildhall
- Boutique executive search firm in Dubai, established 2010.
- 8x independent industry awards since 2020.
- 4.9-star Google rating from over 250 reviews.
- Confidential, candidate-first process with direct access to the consultant running the search.
Hiring a Business Development Manager for Ministry of Defence sales in Qatar
A Business Development Manager selling into Ministry of Defence procurement in Qatar typically owns the full cycle: opening the relationship, shaping the bid, and carrying it through to contract signature. This is a specialist track within defence business development, distinct from broader aerospace or civil-aviation sales, and it rewards people who can point to a named deal they personally closed rather than a pipeline they helped build. Gulf governments are expanding domestic and imported defence capability, and manufacturers entering these markets are hiring locally-minded, procurement-literate business developers market by market rather than covering the region from one seat.
Common questions
What does a Business Development Manager do in Qatar's defence sector?
They open and manage relationships with Ministry of Defence procurement teams, lead bids and tenders, and close government contracts. The role typically covers the full sales cycle from first contact through to signed agreement, rather than account management of existing business.
What experience do I need to apply?
Employers typically look for five or more years in defence business development, sales or procurement, with a specific, named deal you personally closed with a ministry or government buyer. Experience with advanced defence or aerospace technology products is a strong advantage.
How do I apply?
Apply directly on this page. A Guildhall consultant reviews every application personally and will follow up on a confidential basis if your background fits.
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This search is managed by Guildhall — an 8× award-winning executive search and recruitment agency, rated 4.9★ across 250+ Google reviews, recruiting in Qatar preferred and across the GCC.