Business Development Account Manager

SkyGrid, a Boeing, Avathon Company, exists to open the sky for autonomous flight. Based in Austin, Texas, SkyGrid builds ground based high-assurance third-party services to enable the safe operations and airspace integration of highly automated and autonomous aircraft. SkyGrid also acts as a key operational nexus for advanced air mobility, integrating and managing data, infrastructure, access, and traffic to support seamless and efficient air traffic services. 

The SkyGrid team is looking for a Business Development Account Manager who will be responsible for executing SkyGrid’s business development strategy – both domestically and internationally, focusing on securing partnerships and customers within the AAM ecosystem and the broader aerospace sector. This role requires a deep understanding of the aerospace industry, software solutions, and the evolving regulatory  landscape surrounding AAM. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with negotiation experience, a passion for aerospace innovation and a track record of success in domestic and international markets.  

• Contribute to go-to-market strategy. 

• Contribute to building the pipeline resulting in signing one new customer.

• Lead the signing of a second new customer. 

• Contribute to the development of the business development strategy. 

• Contribute to the sales cycle from lead generation and qualification to proposal development, negotiation, and deal closing.  

• Contribute to the Business Development operating system and cross-functional integration (e.g., marketing, product). 

• Contribute to the development and execution of domestic and international Business Development strategies. 

• Identify, qualify, and cultivate relationships with potential customers, partners (e.g., eVTOL manufacturers, drone operators, air navigation service providers, vertiport developers), and industry influencers in target regions. 

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis. 

• Develop high-leverage business partnerships. 

• Be a SkyGrid brand ambassador – give presentations on behalf of SkyGrid, lead workshops, etc.  

• Advocate for the customer as it pertains to devising SkyGrid’s positioning. 

• Promote SkyGrid within target Geos specifically within government and other regulatory stakeholders. 

• Domestic and International travel 30%. 

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, marketing or equivalent. 
• Ability to communicate with a diverse set of international stakeholders. 
• In-depth understanding of the aerospace sector and AAM.  
• Proven go-to-market execution.  
• Proven track record of winning new business. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of global airspace regulations specifically as it pertains to Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs). 
• Proven ability to: generate leads, manage sales pipeline, negotiate deals, and close contracts. 
• Demonstrate a strong sense of ownership within the scope of assigned tasks by taking initiative, being accountable for outcomes, and ensuring consistent follow-through. 
• Leverage your professional network to nurture and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and customers, ensuring long-term collaboration and trust. 
• Effectively craft compelling decks, write clear and concise proposals, and engage in successful negotiations across cultures, tailoring communication to the audience and context. 
• Build rapport and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and colleagues from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and mutual respect. 
• Exhibit the ability to negotiate favorable deals and influence stakeholders by understanding different negotiation styles and adapting strategies to meet diverse needs. 
• Analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and anticipate potential challenges to develop and implement strategic plans that drive long-term success. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of different cultures and business practices, adapting to various cultural norms and communicating effectively across diverse settings. 

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience within the aerospace sector. 

• Experience contributing to international business or market development. 

• Proven international industry success record. 

• Proven industry experience in winning contracts. 

• Exposure to international aviation regulations. 

• Pilot’s license. 

• ANSP/ATC experience. 

• Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One: Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options.
• Generous Retirement Contributions: Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings.
• Calm Annual Membership: Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources.
• Discounted ClassPass Membership: Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide.
• Investment in Your Growth: Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development
• Engaging Team Activities: Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee.
• Fully Stocked Kitchen: Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

An employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily, and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, if it does not pose undue hardship.