ABOUT VERDEGO AERO, INC.

VerdeGo Aero is an aircraft propulsion technology company committed to powering the highest performance electric aircraft of all sizes. The VerdeGo team is passionate about enabling hybrid-electric powerplants to create a next generation of flying machines. This is not an incremental change but rather the 3rd major revolution of aircraft propulsion in the 120-year history of powered flight, disrupting the industry in ways not seen since the advent of the jet engine 75 years ago. Innovations in propulsion always lead to step changes in aircraft design. Aircraft and missions that were previously only seen in Sci-Fi fiction like flying taxis and airliners that take off vertically are becoming a reality through environmentally friendly high performance hybrid systems. VerdeGo’s hardware centric, reality bound philosophy has already delivered flight ready systems for R&D flight test applications. VerdeGo is one of the few companies in this technology space that has both product-based customer revenue and strategic investment. VerdeGo Aero’s headquarters is at the “World’s Most Famous Beach”, in warm and relaxed Daytona Beach, Florida. Daytona Beach is the home of the Daytona 500 NASCAR race, bike weeks, jeep week and the collegial environment of the largest university focusing on aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Job Description

VerdeGo is seeking an experienced business development professional to drive growth in military and government markets. This role is responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of government contracts – from identifying opportunities and developing compliant proposals to navigating negotiations, securing contracts, and staying engaged through execution to support deliverable success. Through proactive engagement and strategic relationship-building, the Director of Government Business Development will drive strong partnerships with government agencies and defense contractors, playing a key role strengthening VerdeGo’s footprint in the federal sector – positioning the company for long-term success in federal markets.

Ideal candidates will have either direct business development experience in government contracting or defense acquisition expertise at the O-5 + level or civilian equivalent, providing deep insight into federal procurement processes and industry dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Development: Identify, pursue, and secure opportunities with defense agencies, prime contractors, and federal entities.
• Government Contract Management: Lead and oversee all phases of military and government contracting – including proposal development, compliance review, and negotiations
• Contract Negotiation & Execution: Lead negotiations to secure favorable terms and ensure seamless contract implementation with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proposal Development & Review: Draft and refine competitive proposals that align with federal procurement regulations and contract requirements.
• Project Execution: Remain actively engaged with internal VerdeGo teams and the customer program office throughout contract execution to ensure progress is tracked, issues are addressed promptly, and deliverables are submitted on time in accordance with negotiated terms.
• Military & Government Engagement: Establish and maintain strong relationships within the military acquisition community by actively participating in government and defense industry events, and by leveraging expertise in procurement, budgeting, and contract vehicles to strategically position the company for future opportunities.
• Market Analysis & Competitive Strategy: Assess industry trends, government funding cycles, and competitor positioning to shape VerdeGo’s business development strategy.
• Regulatory & Compliance Oversight: Ensure all pursuits align with FAR/DFARS regulations, mitigating risks and maintaining compliance.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with finance, operations, and technical teams to align business development efforts with company objectives.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Proven track record in government-focused business development, military acquisition, or federal procurement, preferably within aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries.
• Expertise in government contracting processes, including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating agreements.
• Strong grasp of FAR/DFARS regulations and federal acquisition strategies.
• Demonstrated success in identifying and securing government contracts and funding opportunities.
• Familiarity with military/government budget cycles, acquisition procedures, and regulatory environments.
• Ability to cultivate high-value relationships within government, DoD, and contractor networks.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
• Bachelor’s degree required in business, government policy, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Established relationships within government, DoD, and contractor networks
• Advanced expertise in RFP/RFI responses, proposal development, and competitive strategy
• Technical background in aerospace, defense, or engineering, enhancing contract negotiations and product alignment.
• Civilian defense or military service background, particularly with experience in acquisition or operational roles.
• Advanced degrees (MBA, MPA, Engineering, or Defense Policy) further strengthening expertise in government business strategy.
• Bonus: Secret clearance to enable immediate access to restricted government projects.

Other Requirements:

• Travel is required for trade shows and customer visits
• Occasionally must be able to move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds