Business Development Manager

About GITAI:

Humanity has been developing horizontally on Earth, but we believe now is the time to expand vertically. With the decreasing costs of space access, the possibilities for exploration and utilization of space are expanding exponentially. At GITAI, we are at the cutting edge of this vertical development, providing the robotic technologies that enable safe and affordable labor in space. Our space robot solution reduces the operational cost in space by 100 times and will make sustained human presence and activity in space a reality.

About the Role:

We are looking for an exceptionally talented Business Development Manager with a hands-on mindset to spearhead our sales efforts and drive growth in the expanding space industry. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Business Development, you will support strategic planning and leadership of bids and proposal activity for space robot solutions for both commercial and US Government markets. You will also work closely with the engineering team to build and maintain client relationships and identify opportunities for client expansion through the impressive and engaging technology demonstrations of real robotic systems in both terrestrial and space environments, rather than computer-generated images.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute innovative business strategies for the space and defense industry
• Conduct in-depth market research, including hypothesis setting, market surveys, and quantitative/qualitative analysis
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in NASA, DoD, other US government agencies, and commercial space companies
• Manage relationships, lead negotiations, and generate sales with key customers
• Use a consultative-selling approach, bringing together technical experts and partners to shape solutions to customer requirements
• Structure and negotiate agreements end-to-end, from contextual understanding of business challenges to the design and pricing of service proposals

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science and Business field
• 3+ years of professional experience in sales, with track record of exceptional performance and results
• 1+ years of experience working for a pre-series B startup company
• Experience in business development or sales of services, not only hardware products
• Experience with proposal development, writing, and ability to complete cost and technical proposals
• Strong strategic thinking, business planning, and market research hands-on skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly and persuasively
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage your own time effectively

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or business
• Demonstrated success in managing long sales cycles, negotiation, and closing high-stakes deals
• Proven track records on securing high-value (>$10M) contracts in the aerospace and/or defense industry
• Extensive experience in sales of high-value robotics or aerospace products

Additional Qualifications:

• Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Willingness to travel approximately 30% of the time including to customer locations and other stakeholders locations

Location and Position Type:

• Torrance, CA (On-Site)
• Full-Time

Salary/Pay:

• $125,000 - $155,000/yr
• Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare: 100% paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees, with 90% coverage for dependents, plus life insurance
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a company match 
• Relocation Assistance: Support for eligible roles to ensure a smooth transition
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary packages to reward your talent and dedication
• Equity Opportunities: Stock options in a rapidly growing startup, giving you a stake in our success (depending on role eligibility) 
• Work Hard, Play Hard Culture: Paid holidays, PTO, and sick days to keep you refreshed and motivated
• Dynamic Work Environment: Collaborate and innovate with a passionate team
• Office Perks: Enjoy free snacks and drinks, plus regular social events to foster team spirit 
• Cutting Edge Experience: Work alongside state-of-the-art robots, driving the future of space technology

Important Notice:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), GITAI Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. 

GITAI USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with GITAI USA is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.