Senior Business Development Account Executive – Autonomy Specialist

About the role

Shield AI is looking for a high‑performing Business Development / Account Executive to accelerate growth of its Hivemind autonomy platform across the Middle East, with a primary focus on UAE defence and government customers. The role will own the full sales lifecycle, shape complex opportunities, and build lasting relationships while executing disciplined capture strategies.

Key responsibilities

• Own and drive the complete sales process for Hivemind opportunities, from pipeline generation to close.
• Develop and execute territory and capture strategies aligned with Shield AI’s long‑term plan.
• Identify, qualify, and shape new business opportunities based on customer missions, budgets, and acquisition pathways.
• Build and maintain relationships with key decision‑makers, program offices, and influencers in defence and government.
• Lead proposal development with BD Operations and cross‑functional teams, ensuring alignment with customer requirements.
• Conduct competitive analysis and position Hivemind effectively in multi‑stakeholder environments.
• Partner with Product, Engineering, and Solutions teams to translate customer needs into technical solutions.
• Maintain rigorous deal progression, accurate forecasting, and CRM hygiene.

Required profile

• 10‑15+ years of business development, sales, or capture experience in AI/ML, autonomy, SaaS, aerospace or defence.
• Proven track record of closing deals within UAE government or defence markets.
• Deep understanding of defence acquisition processes and government procurement lifecycle.
• Strong experience developing and executing capture strategies for complex opportunities.
• Technical aptitude to engage credibly with engineering and product stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree required; fluency in Arabic and English.

Required skills

• AI/ML
• Autonomy
• Unmanned systems (UAS)
• SaaS