Business Development Programme Manager

Job Description

The Role

The security and resilience landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing challenges and opportunities for ADS member companies. From national security threats and cyber resilience to emergency preparedness and business continuity, the need for a robust industry response has never been greater, with new opportunities and challenges emerging for ADS member companies.

Business development is central to supporting members’ growth, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships. The Programme Manager will play a pivotal role in leading and coordinating ADS’ business development initiatives, supporting members to access new markets, and driving value through targeted programmes and events.

This role will suit experienced business development professionals with a background in programme management, commercial strategy, or sector engagement, ideally with experience in both public and private sectors.

Support the wider Security and Resilience Sector Team in managing the budget and providing value for money for our members.

The role directly reports to the Director Security & Resilience Sector and has one direct report, the Secretarial Assistant.

Mandatory: UK Security Clearance at or above SC level, or a reasonable expectation of obtaining this level.

The Candidate ​

We are seeking a dynamic professional with the ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational levels. The ideal candidate will possess excellent coordination and organisational skills, alongside strong interpersonal, lobbying, and communication capabilities. Commercial acumen is essential, with the ability to manage programme implementation while understanding revenue generation through services and events.

You will bring experience in business development, programme management, or commercial functions, complemented by strategic exposure within government, industry, or international business development roles. A solid understanding of emerging challenges in business development, such as digital transformation, is highly desirable. Proven experience in programme or project management and proficiency in Microsoft Office products are required.

The successful candidate will be self-motivated and able to work independently while demonstrating strong communication skills to convey ideas clearly and confidently to colleagues and stakeholders.

They will bring proven problem-solving ability, applying analytical thinking and resourcefulness to overcome challenges, and show resilience under pressure, maintaining performance and composure in demanding situations. Adaptability is key, with the ability to adjust to evolving priorities and environments.

A customer-focused approach is essential, ensuring timely delivery and excellent service for members. The role requires a collaborative mindset, working openly with colleagues, members, and partners, and acting with integrity and reliability to build trust through honesty and dependability in all actions.

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The Contract & Benefits

Contract; Permanent, fulltime role, Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week

Location; Hybrid working- based at ADS offices in London or Farnborough, with occasional travel and the option to work from home two days per week.

The Job Description; Programme Manager (Strategic Commercial and Business Development) JD.docx

Benefits; bonus, pension, private health insurance, life insurance, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, 9-day fortnight, hybrid working, extended remote working, enhanced parental leave, 28 days annual leave, buy additional annual leave, long service additional annual leave