International Sales Accountmanager

Company Description

Our client protects the people who protect others. For over a hundred years, this company has been developing and producing high-tech textiles for defense and security: ballistic protection, CBRN, combat clothing, and more, utilized by NATO, European Ministries of Defense, and security services in more than 20 countries.

Since the beginning of 2026, our client has opened a new chapter: a professional investor, a long-term growth mandate, and a management team that co-invests. From ambition to scale. And for that, we are looking for you.

You are the commercial engine behind the international tenders in defense and law enforcement. You win large government contracts, build strategic relationships with ministries and procurement directorates, and manage key accounts in home markets (BE, NL, DK, FR) and growth markets (DE, SE, PL, UK, EMEA).

Not catalog sales, but playing at the highest level: trust, technical insight, and years of relationships. In doing so, you leverage a strong asset: in-house R&D, an in-house lab, and an in-house ballistic shooting range.

Specifically:

• Together with the Tender Manager, you prepare complex international quotes and contracts and negotiate them, with an eye for compliance (NATO, EU, export).
• You expand strategic key accounts in the home markets (BE, NL, DK, FR) and the growth markets (DE, SE, PL, UK, broader EMEA).
• You close large, long-term framework agreements and follow the entire trajectory — from business development and lobbying to ordering and aftercare.
• You analyze geopolitical and market developments and spot new tender opportunities early.
• You represent the company at international trade fairs and high-level events (Eurosatory, DSEI, Milipol).

The absolute must, upon which your candidacy stands or falls:

A demonstrable network with and/or experience with governments and public procurement. You have previously done business directly with ministries, defense or security services, procurement directorates, or other public institutions — and you bring existing relationships or a proven track record in tenders. This is not a "strong plus," but the core of the role. (Sector is secondary: whether that network was built in defense, security, or another government context is less important than the fact that you have it.)

Additionally, you bring:

• At least 5 years of international experience in sales, business development, or account management at a senior level, with government contracts, defense, or law enforcement as a consistent thread in your client portfolio.
• Proven ability in analyzing, coordinating, and winning complex international tenders — from dossier preparation to signing.
• Thorough knowledge of the regulations surrounding international (defense) tenders (NATO, EU, export); that framework is your familiar territory.
• Diplomatic, discreet, and strategic, with an excellent sense of confidentiality — exactly what working with government and defense clients requires.
• Fluent English and French; Dutch and/or German is a plus.
• Willing to travel internationally (approx. 30% of the time).
• Hands-on and entrepreneurial; not a purely corporate profile, but someone who brings structure.