Senior Sales Manager - Defence & Security

About the role

Thales is looking for a Senior Sales Manager in Zurich to lead its expansion across domestic and international markets. You will champion the Thales Group portfolio alongside locally engineered innovations, from secure broadband communications to advanced power solutions, shaping complex programs, unlocking new markets and building long-term partnerships.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with Sales Leadership to turn customer insights into long-term strategic partnerships.
• Drive national and international growth through pre-sales initiatives, contract negotiations and after-sales opportunities.
• Design and run bespoke sales strategies for targeted market segments and regions.
• Help clients solve their challenges while proactively upselling and cross-selling.
• Lead high-stakes commercial discussions and ensure internal alignment of teams around customer needs.
• Analyse market trends, anticipate risks and uncover new opportunities.
• Prioritize the opportunity pipeline and work with internal and external stakeholders to close deals.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in the defence sector, preferably in communication systems, cybersecurity, electronic warfare, radar or air defense.
• Proven track record as a Sales, Key Account or Bid Manager selling complex defence programs in B2B and B2G environments.
• Strong strategic and entrepreneurial mindset, with a network of industrial and governmental stakeholders.
• Fluent German and English; French is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel frequently within Switzerland and internationally.
• Master's degree in Business Administration or equivalent.

Required skills

• Proficiency with CRM software, sales analytics, reporting and performance management tools.
• Negotiation, communication and relationship-building skills.