Business Development Manager

Orbit Fab's mission is to create the foundational infrastructure that will fuel a bustling in-space economy, capable of sustaining permanent jobs in space. Today, satellites cannot be refueled, which severely constrains their mobility and inhibits the development of economic activities in space.
Orbit Fab breaks the single-use paradigm, pioneering our Gas Stations in Space™ refueling infrastructure and RAFTI™ technology to deliver propellant in space, enabling lower-cost satellite construction, increased maneuverability, precise control, and extended lifespans. The possibilities are unprecedented, opening the doors to unimagined operational strategies and business models.
Since our establishment in 2018, we have already achieved the successful launch of three tankers to space. With offices in both the US and UK, we are working in close collaboration with partners and customers across the space industry. Orbit Fab is rapidly ramping up capabilities and requires exceptional talent to tackle important challenges. Our roles offer wide ranging opportunities to have a demonstrable impact and enable a bustling space economy.
Role Overview:
The Business Development Manager will be an exceptional relationship builder who will work with the Business Development Director to build and execute on the Business Development strategy. You will serve as a point of contact for customers from early capabilities studies through successful contract awards. You will work directly with a small team to quickly iterate on satellite refueling and servicing solutions and ensure they meet all customer needs. You will be a big part of supporting a winning commercial business development organization.
The ideal candidate will bring experience in entrepreneurship ecosystem building and partnership building in the space industry. A background in executing against sales cycles is preferred. This candidate will possess an in-depth understanding of the business needs of satellite operators, spacecraft manufacturers, and the emerging satellite servicing industry. Orbit Fab must understand that the candidate has a demonstrated history of inspiring and driving business and possesses the ability to connect and build strong relationships.
Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in the space industry, including commercial partnerships, joint ventures, and government contracts. Develop and execute strategies to expand our customer base and market share.
• Build and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, commercial companies, and industry influencers. Understand customer needs and translate them into actionable business opportunities.
• Negotiate, structure, and close partnership deals with potential clients, collaborators, and investors. Work with the leadership team to align these partnerships with our company's vision and business objectives.
• Stay informed on the latest industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies within the space sector. Provide strategic insights and recommendations to senior leadership based on market research and business analysis.
• Manage the entire sales process, from lead generation to deal closure. Meet and exceed sales targets and revenue goals while ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, and product development, to ensure alignment between business development activities and company capabilities.
• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations, proposals, and pitches to potential clients, investors, and partners. Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of experience in business development, sales, or a related field, with a focus on the aerospace, space, or high-tech industries.
• Experience with government contracts (e.g., NASA, DoD) is a plus.
• Understanding of the space industry, including key players, market trends, and potential growth areas. Prior experience in space-related business development or commercialization of technology is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to generate leads, close deals, and manage a sales pipeline. Strong negotiation skills and experience working with high-level stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Ability to think strategically and identify opportunities that align with the company's mission and long-term goals. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, rapidly changing startup environment.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences (technical and non-technical).
• A strong network within the space industry, government agencies, or related sectors is a big plus. Proven track record of building and maintaining professional relationships with clients and partners.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent advanced degree is a plus.

This position is a hybrid work model, requiring time both in our Lafayette, CO office and remotely.
Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalized people tend to only apply when they meet 100% of the qualifications. At Orbit Fab, we value respectful debate and people who aren't afraid to challenge assumptions. We strongly encourage you to apply if you feel you would succeed in the role above.
Location and Benefits
Orbit Fab is based out of Lafayette, Colorado and all roles are based in Colorado. We offer fully covered benefits, discretionary time off, and flexible work hours.
Eligibility
Some job roles may be limited to US Persons (22 CFR 120.62 "U.S. person").
Orbit Fab Inc does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.