Business Development Manager UAE

About the role

The Business Development Manager UAE at Safran.AI is entrusted with architecting and executing a focused sales strategy that directly supports the group's transformation agenda through advanced AI applications. You will leverage sophisticated tools such as high-resolution satellite imagery and Full Motion Video analytics to design solutions that address critical defense and aerospace challenges. In this capacity, you will translate intricate algorithmic capabilities into compelling narratives that resonate with institutional buyers across the Middle East and Africa region. The role demands a balance between autonomous ownership of commercial outcomes and seamless collaboration with engineering and product teams to refine value propositions. You will systematically map institutional demand patterns to generate a robust pipeline of high-value opportunities that align with long-term corporate objectives. Success in this position requires navigating complex public sector procurement processes while ensuring all activities adhere to strict data security and regulatory standards. Ultimately, you will drive industry event presence and forge strategic narratives that position Safran.AI as an indispensable partner for mission-critical AI deployments in aerospace and defense sectors.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Conduct exhaustive market intelligence gathering to uncover latent demand for AI-driven defense and aerospace analytics within the MEA region.
• Architect bespoke solution briefs that intricately weave satellite analytics with operational workflows to satisfy specific government buyer requirements.
• Design and deliver interactive trade show narratives using scenario walkthroughs that showcase the real-world impact of Safran.AI technologies.
• Orchestrate bid input processes by coordinating closely with internal specialists to ensure technical accuracy and precise pricing assumptions.
• Synchronize product roadmaps with evolving customer feedback and regulatory landscapes to ensure feature evolution remains strategically aligned.
• Champion Safran.AI capabilities at high-level defense forums, ensuring messaging reflects operational constraints and technological nuance.
• Negotiate commercial terms by balancing client budget cycles against internal margin requirements and partnership conditions.
• Close projects by steering legal reviews, security checks, and implementation kickoff sequences to guarantee smooth onboarding.
• Generate pipeline through systematic mapping of institutions and identifying overlooked demand patterns across diverse MEA markets.
• Translate complex AI concepts into clear, value-driven propositions that resonate with senior public sector stakeholders.
• Drive industry event presence by developing content and narratives that highlight Safran.AI's expertise in real-world applications.
• Ensure successful execution of sales strategy in strict alignment with overarching company objectives and mission-driven AI initiatives.

Requirements

• Bring 3-5 years of demonstrable experience in defense or aerospace sales cycles within relevant regional contexts.
• Maintain a solid understanding of public sector procurement processes specific to Middle East markets to navigate complex buying journeys.
• Demonstrate comfort operating with confidential data in highly regulated environments where security and compliance are paramount.
• Communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal, when engaging with senior stakeholders and technical audiences.
• Operate reliably within global business environments that demand adaptability and cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Exhibit strong ownership of commercial outcomes while adhering to strict ethical and regulatory guidelines.
• Show capacity to manage multiple priorities and balance autonomous decision-making with interdepartmental coordination.
• Commit to continuous learning about AI applications in defense, aerospace, and Industry 4.0 contexts to remain effective in role.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with FMV or satellite imagery products is considered advantageous for this role.

Practical notes

• The selection process will assess both technical acumen and commercial acuity in the context of Safran.AI's mission to operate AI in the real world.
• The position operates on a full-time basis with a fixed compensation package of 150,000 AED per year.
• The candidate must be physically based in Abu Dhabi to ensure effective collaboration with regional and global teams.
• Travel requirements may include attendance at defense and aerospace industry events across the Middle East and Africa region.
• Visa sponsorship considerations will be addressed in accordance with company policies and local regulations during the hiring process.
• Application review will prioritize candidates who can demonstrate a clear understanding of public sector sales dynamics in emerging technology environments.