Commercial Director

The role

A senior commercial leader will devise and implement a strategic engagement framework with the National Armaments Director Group and DE&S. The role involves bridging the cultures of defence procurement and a technology company to secure major UK defence programmes.

What you will do

• Devise and implement a comprehensive engagement strategy with the National Armaments Director Group and DE&S.
• Build and activate a senior network across UK and allied defence procurement organisations.
• Collaborate with Campaign Leads and senior leadership to integrate procurement strategy with commercial objectives.
• Represent Helsing at senior-level forums, bilateral engagements, and industry events.
• Develop internal frameworks and guidance to navigate MoD procurement cycles.

Required qualifications

• Demonstrable track record of shaping or delivering major UK defence procurement programmes at a senior level.
• Established network within DE&S, the National Armaments Director Group, or equivalent defence procurement bodies.
• Experience operating at the interface of government procurement and industry.
• Ability to translate complex procurement landscapes into clear strategic priorities.
• Experience leading or contributing to the development of defence engagement strategies.

Nice to have

• Experience gained through a secondment in industry, a consulting environment, or another cross-sector role that bridges procurement and commercial strategy
• Direct experience of transitioning from a senior DE&S or equivalent government procurement role into an industry-facing position

Benefits

• Competitive salary and VSOP options
• Relocation support: up to €2,500 and 4 weeks temporary accommodation
• Learning: €500/£450 yearly allowance
• Gym membership and mental health support (Nilo.health)
• Regularly company events and monthly social allowances
• 22 weeks fully paid for primary caregivers
• 6 weeks for secondary caregivers
• 5 days of paid family emergency leave
• 100% remote work option during pregnancy and phased return to work

About the company

Helsing is a defence AI company with a mission to protect democracies. They aim to achieve technological leadership so open societies can continue to make sovereign decisions.