Key Account Manager – Defense Market 

Location: United States (preferably near Northern California or Minneapolis–St. Paul)

Compensation: $120,000 – $150,000 base + commission

Reports To: Director of Sales 

About the Company 

A global leader in precision-engineered interconnect and electro-mechanical solutions, this company serves customers across defense, aerospace, medical, industrial, and high-reliability technology markets. With over seven decades of innovation, it’s recognized for its engineering excellence, premium product quality, and collaborative culture. 

The organization is privately held and financially strong, maintaining a reputation for Swiss-level craftsmanship and trusted partnerships with leading OEMs worldwide. 

The Opportunity 

The Key Account Manager – Defense Market will drive strategic account growth and new business development within the U.S. defense sector.This individual will manage high-value customer relationships, execute complex sales cycles, and position the company’s interconnect solutions within critical defense programs. 

This role suits a technical, relationship-oriented salesperson who thrives in structured yet entrepreneurial environments and enjoys collaborating with engineering and operations teams to deliver high-reliability solutions. 

Key Responsibilities 

Account Ownership & Growth 

• Serve as the primary relationship manager for assigned U.S. defense accounts. 
• Build multi-level relationships with decision-makers, program managers, and design engineers. 
• Develop account strategies using Miller Heiman or similar methodologies to identify growth opportunities and mitigate risks. 

Business Development 

• Research and qualify new business within the defense ecosystem—OEMs, Tier-1 integrators, and primes. 
• Track bids, monitor pipeline activity, and influence design specifications at early program stages. 
• Translate customer needs into technical and commercial solutions that differentiate the company’s value. 

Sales Strategy & Execution 

• Partner with Marketing and Sales leadership to develop go-to-market plans tailored to the defense sector. 
• Analyze market trends and competitive dynamics to refine pricing, positioning, and account targeting. 
• Participate in defense industry trade shows and events to strengthen brand presence and generate leads. 

Internal Collaboration 

• Coordinate with engineering, operations, and customer service to ensure program delivery meets customer expectations. 
• Provide timely reporting, forecasting, and CRM updates to support business planning. 
• Share customer feedback and insights to inform product development and technology roadmaps. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s or Technical degree (or equivalent experience). 
• 5+ years of relevant B2B sales experience in connectors, electro-mechanical components, or value-added interconnect solutions. 
• Experience selling into defense, military, or aerospace programs. 
• Veteran or U.S. military background strongly preferred. 
• Proven track record managing complex, long-cycle sales with technical and executive stakeholders. 
• Strong communication, analytical, and relationship-building skills. 
• Comfortable traveling up to 50% domestically. 

Why Join? 

• Work with a respected global leader in mission-critical technology. 
• Engage directly with cutting-edge defense and aerospace programs. 
• Join a collaborative, high-integrity culture that values professionalism and long-term relationships. 
• Competitive compensation, full benefits, and ongoing professional development.