We're seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Business Development to drive growth, forge strategic partnerships, and elevate the Oregon UAS Accelerator's position in the aerospace industry. This role is crucial in expanding our network, attracting top-tier startups, and securing key partnerships and sponsorships.
Location: Pendleton, Oregon (On-Site)
Note: This position will initially be a contractor role without benefits, transitioning to a full-time salaried position with comprehensive benefits in 6-9 months.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement comprehensive business development strategies
Cultivate and maintain relationships with investors, government agencies, and industry leaders
Secure sponsorships and partnerships to support accelerator initiatives
Provide strategic input and support for key events, focusing on investor and partner engagement
Provide business development insights to the marketing team for promotional efforts
Identify and recruit high-potential UAS startups for our accelerator program
Align business development efforts with the 12-week curriculum structure, identifying opportunities for industry partnerships and mentorship within each program component
Represent the accelerator at industry events and conferences
Develop and manage the accelerator's investor relations program
Develop and implement strategies to increase the accelerator's revenue streams
Collaborate with the Director of Programs and Strategy Development to identify potential industry mentors and advisors for the accelerator program
Identify and pursue government and military contracts and collaborations
Work closely with the Director of Programs and Strategy to align business development efforts with program offerings
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Business, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; MBA preferred
7+ years of experience in business development, preferably in the aerospace or tech startup sectors
Proven track record of securing partnerships, sponsorships, and investment deals
Strong understanding of the UAS industry and emerging technologies
Experience with government and military contracting processes
Experience in developing and managing strategic partnerships in the tech or aerospace sectors
Excellent negotiation and closing skills
Desired Skills:
Existing relationships with investors, government agencies, and aerospace industry leaders
Knowledge of UAS regulations and policy landscape
Familiarity with grant funding processes and the ability to identify potential grant opportunities for the accelerator and its startups
Strong leadership and team-building capabilities
Strategic thinking and ability to translate vision into actionable plans
Adaptability and comfort with ambiguity in a fast-paced environment
Ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market trends in the UAS industry
Expected Work Hours:
Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate networking events and travel.
In-person / Virtual Requirements:
This role requires physical presence in Pendleton, Oregon, with frequent travel for industry events, partnership meetings, and startup recruitment.
Office Skills:
Proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for collaborative work and presentations
Experience with Monday CRM for managing business development pipelines
Advanced skills in Google Slides, PowerPoint or other presentation software for investor and partner presentations
Proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting tools
Communication Skills:
Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities
Public speaking and presentation skills for industry events and investor pitches
Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Ability to craft compelling partnership and sponsorship proposals
Networking Skills:
Proven ability to build and maintain high-level professional relationships
Experience in organizing and facilitating networking events
Strong presence on professional social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn
Experience in international business development and cross-cultural communication"
Team-building Skills:
Demonstrated leadership in building and managing high-performing teams
Ability to collaborate effectively across departments
Experience in mentoring and developing talent
Why Pendleton?
Experience the unique blend of rural charm and cutting-edge technology in Pendleton. Home to the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up, Pendleton Woolen Mills, and our state-of-the-art UAS test range, Pendleton offers an unparalleled quality of life and the opportunity to be at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
Growth Opportunities:
As our organization expands, this role offers significant potential for professional growth and the opportunity to shape the future of UAS innovation in Oregon. You'll have the chance to build a world-class network, expand our reach nationally and internationally, and potentially develop new revenue streams and initiatives within the organization.
Join us in driving the growth of UAS innovation and making a lasting impact on the aerospace industry. If you're a dynamic business developer with a passion for technology and a drive to build something extraordinary, we want to hear from you!
About the Oregon UAS Accelerator:
The Oregon UAS Accelerator is at the forefront of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) innovation, positioning Pendleton as a premier hub for UAS, UAV, and URS development. Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs, drive technological advancements, and foster a collaborative ecosystem that propels Oregon to global leadership in the UAS industry.