Business Development Manager

About SteerAI

SteerAI is an autonomous mobility technology company powered by VentureOne, the commercialization arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council. SteerAI’s advanced AI-powered autonomy stack, developed by the Technology Innovation Institute, empowers the logistics and defense industries by turning industrial vehicles into autonomous powerhouses that can handle complex off-road missions, transform operations and protect organizations' most important assets: their workforce.

About the role

At the intersection of business strategy and cutting-edge robotics, this Business Analyst / Solution Developer role offers a unique opportunity to drive autonomous solutions from concept to implementation. Working in close partnership with our technical sales engineering teams, you'll translate client operational challenges into robotics-based solutions that deliver measurable ROI.

Responsibilities

• Drive Growth & Customer Engagement: Lead the business development agenda in the UAE by identifying, cultivating, and closing opportunities for advanced autonomous solutions across defense and security sectors.
• Solution Design & Customization: Work closely with clients to understand their operational challenges and design tailored, end-to-end autonomous solutions aligned with their customer journeys and strategic objectives.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with Product, Operations, and Technology teams to co-develop scalable and innovative solutions, ensuring seamless integration into customer environments.
• Market & Competitive Intelligence: Conduct in-depth market analysis and research to build Ideal Customer Profiles (ICPs), identify key target segments, and track competitor activities to refine go-to-market strategies.
• Commercial Modeling: Develop and maintain detailed cost, pricing, and business models to support competitive proposals, contract negotiations, and long-term partnerships.
• Stakeholder Management: Build strong, trust-based relationships with senior client executives, government entities, and regional partners, positioning SteerAI as a strategic advisor and partner of choice.
• Brand Advocacy: Represent SteerAI at high-level industry events, conferences, and government forums, enhancing brand visibility and establishing thought leadership.
• Strategic Partnerships: Identify, negotiate, and manage partnerships with local and regional stakeholders to accelerate adoption and deployment of autonomous solutions.

Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred. Relevant experience can compensate for lack of degree
• Experience: 7–10 years in business development, sales, consulting, or strategic partnerships, with a proven track record in complex solution selling within the technology, defense, or security sectors.
• Technical Acumen: Strong understanding of autonomous driving systems, robotics, and AI-driven technologies; ability to communicate complex technical concepts in a clear, compelling manner to diverse stakeholders.
• Regional Expertise: Significant experience operating in the UAE and/or Middle East, with a deep understanding of regional business practices, government procurement processes, and cultural dynamics.
• Industry Expertise: Significant experience in working with or within the Defense and Security Industry (either hands on or in other roles) and expertise in running Government and Semi governmental sales processes
• Communication Skills: Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills; fluency in English is required, and proficiency in Arabic is a strong advantage.
• Mobility: Willingness and flexibility to travel extensively across the Middle East to engage with clients, partners, and government stakeholders.

What we offer

We offer a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the Autonomous Robotics industry. Our work culture is collaborative and inclusive, with a strong focus on innovation and personal growth.

If you're passionate about advancing the frontiers of Autonomous Robotics and eager to leave a lasting mark in this domain, seize the opportunity and apply today to join us in sculpting the future of this dynamic field!