Manager Business Development - Naval C5ISR Systems

Company: Leonardo DRS
Location: Mount Rainier
Posted on: March 7, 2026

Job Description:

The Leonardo DRS Naval Electronics business provides leading naval computing infrastructure, network and data distribution and middleware enterprise services, as well as world-class manufacturing and support capabilities. Job Summary DRS Naval Electronics provides mission-critical naval electronics and integrated C5ISR solutions to naval and maritime customers worldwide. We design, integrate and sustain advanced systems that improve situational awareness, survivability and decision advantage at sea. We are seeking an experienced, results-oriented Business Development Manager to grow our naval C5ISR business and win complex defense opportunities. The BD Manager — Naval C5ISR Systems will lead capture and proposal efforts, develop and maintain customer relationships, shape market strategies, and coordinate internal resources and industry partners to win new programs and expand existing accounts. This role requires deep domain knowledge of naval C5ISR architectures and acquisition processes, proven capture management skills, and the ability to translate technical capabilities into compelling solutions and executable win strategies. Job Responsibilities Lead capture planning and execution for naval C5ISR opportunities (platforms may include surface ships, submarines, unmanned vessels, and shore installations). Develop and maintain senior-level relationships with DoD and naval customers, prime contractors, program offices, systems commands and end users. Generate pipeline, qualify opportunities, and drive pursuits from early shaping to contract award. Lead preparation of compliant, high-quality proposals, white papers, technical volume inputs, statements of work, staffing plans, cost/price strategies, and win themes. Coordinate cross-functional teams (engineering, systems integration, program management, contracts, pricing, legal, supply chain) to develop integrated and executable solutions. Perform customer and market intelligence, competitor analysis, and capture risk assessments; recommend actionable mitigation strategies. Identify and build strategic teaming agreements and partnerships to enhance competitive position and meet solicitation requirements (teaming, subcontract, and JV arrangements). Track and report capture metrics, opportunity status and forecasts to BD leadership and senior management. Represent DRS at industry events, conferences and customer engagements; deliver persuasive briefings and demos. Ensure capture and proposal activities comply with procurement rules, export controls and company policy. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related discipline. Advanced degree preferred. 7 years of progressive business development, capture or sales experience in the defense industry with at least 4 years focused on naval C5ISR systems or closely related maritime electronics. Demonstrated success winning complex, multi-disciplinary DoD/US Navy contracts (experience with IDIQs, BPAs, task orders, and prime/sub relationships strongly preferred). Strong knowledge of C5ISR elements: command and control, tactical networks, sensors, EO/IR, radar, SIGINT, EW, cyber, system integration and platform interfaces. Proven capture management, proposal leadership and win strategy development skills. Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, contracting vehicles, and procurement structures. Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills; persuasive executive-level briefings. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build and manage cross-functional internal teams and external partners Willingness to travel (typically 25% - 40%; may vary by capture) as required. Additional (Preferred) Qualifications Prior experience with naval systems integration, shipboard installations, or platform-specific C5ISR programs. Background in cyber, electronic warfare, autonomy, AI/ML applied to sensor fusion or mission systems. Experience with pricing strategies, cost proposals and negotiation support. Existing contacts within Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), Program Executive Offices (PEOs), Office of Naval Research (ONR), NAVAIR, SPAWAR/PMW/USFFC or allied navies. CRM and capture tools experience (Salesforce, Deltek, GovWin, etc.). U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. The salary range for this position if filled in the DC area ($120,000/year - $180,000). This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. *Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Keywords: Leonardo DRS, Montgomery Village , Manager Business Development - Naval C5ISR Systems, Engineering , Mount Rainier, Maryland