Head of Growth, Autonomy & Artificial Intelligence

Job Description :

Saab, Inc. is a global leader in aerospace, defense, security, and advanced technology solutions. As we expand our capabilities in autonomy and artificial intelligence (AI), we seek an experienced business leader to drive growth, market positioning, and customer engagement across the Skapa portfolio.

The Head of Growth for Autonomy & AI will be responsible for developing and executing the global go-to-market strategy for the company's autonomy and artificial intelligence portfolios. This role will combine strategic market development with direct sales leadership and proposal development, focusing on defense, security, and dual-use applications. The successful candidate will be a thought leader in autonomy and AI solutions, capable of engaging at the highest levels with defense customers, industry partners, and government stakeholders to position the company as a preferred provider of advanced autonomous systems and AI-enabled technologies.

This role is located in either San Deigo, CA or Washington, D.C. Relocation will be provided if needed.

Key Responsibilities :

Lead global market strategy, sales planning, and business capture efforts for autonomy and AI product lines.

Build strong relationships with US government departments and agencies, military services, research agencies, and strategic partners.

Develop pipeline opportunities, qualify leads, and oversee pursuit strategies for major programs and contracts.

Track GovWin, Sam.gov, DIU solicitations, DARPA solicitations etc. consistently.

Foster existing relationships and expand current portfolio through consistent engagement with customers.

Collaborate with product managers, engineering, and program management teams to align offerings with customer missions and emerging requirements.

Negotiate and close complex, high-value contracts with international and domestic defense customers.

Represent the company at global defense exhibitions, industry forums, and government-led initiatives to strengthen brand and thought leadership.

Track competitor activities, industry trends, and policy / regulatory developments impacting autonomy and AI markets.

Deliver annual revenue, bookings, and growth targets for the portfolio.

Typical Salary Range : $161,500-209,900 for our San Diego, CA location; $176,200-229,000 for our Washington, D.C. location.

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education / training.

Skills and Experience :

Basic Qualifications :

Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, computer science or related field; advanced degree (MBA or MS) preferred.

10+ years of experience in defense or aerospace market development, sales, or business development, with proven success in high-value contract pursuits.

Strong knowledge of autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and related defense applications.

Demonstrated experience engaging with senior defense officials, acquisition authorities, and international stakeholders.

Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.

Ability to operate in a fast-paced, matrixed, global organization.

Willingness to travel domestic / international up to 40-50%.

Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Citizenship Requirements :

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces :

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits :

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, business-casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits :

Medical, vision and dental insurance for employees and dependents

Paid time off including : minimum of 3 weeks vacation, 5 floating holidays, 8 designated holidays, parental leave, personal illness, bereavement, jury duty, long-term and short-term disability

401(k) with immediate vesting on employer match

Tuition assistance

Student loan assistance

Wellness account, Care.com subscription and employee assistance programs

Employee stock purchase program with employer match

About Us :

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 19,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in eight U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person's needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.