Business Development Manager, Japan at Shield AI

Tokyo, Japan

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Defense, Aerospace, Deep TechIndustries

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent military education
Exceptional communicator: Fluent in both Japanese and English with strong written, verbal, and presentation skills and the ability to engage seamlessly at all levels of business and government
Charismatic leader who can motivate, inspire, and impart excitement about Shield AI’s mission, technology, and products with the desire to help build the defining defense technology company of this century
Thorough understanding of Japan military operations and acquisition processes with the ability to maintain strong customer relationships
Self-motivated and results-oriented, with a track record of meeting and exceeding critical goals and deadlines
Proven leadership and/or acquisition and operational experience within the U.S. DoD or international equivalents and demonstrated understanding of Japan Air, Ground, Maritime Self-Defense Force equivalent operational scenarios and systems
Technical knowledge within UAV and/or AI disciplines, or demonstrated ability to learn quickly
Willing and able to travel both domestically and internationally, frequently and without restriction, including to customer sites
Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate effectively while also being direct and forthright
Proficient in business systems and tools required for high-performance operations
MBA or equivalent advanced degree (preferred)

Responsibilities

Support the International Business Development Regional Director in executing Shield AI’s strategy and objectives
Engage with customers regularly to present and discuss Shield AI products (V-BAT, X-BAT, Hivemind Products, and ViDAR)
Cultivate, nurture, and maintain strong relationships across the Japanese Government, military services, and defense industries to ensure engagements with key stakeholders
Represent Shield AI at trade shows, exhibitions, and industry events, showcasing our technology and capabilities
Devise and coordinate marketing and government relations initiatives to increase Shield AI’s visibility and influence
Plan and execute product demonstrations for prospective customers and partners
Customer interface with Embassy, MDAO, JMOD, ATLA, Government entities to include think tanks, academia, and local defense industry
Work cross-functionally to address customer needs and provide tailored responses
Lead and coordinate proposal responses and follow through to contract award
Develop and implement offset strategies and identify and execute other U.S. defense prime offset obligations
Maintain accurate and up-to-date opportunity tracking in Salesforce and other business systems

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Business DevelopmentDefense ProcurementCustomer EngagementProduct DemonstrationsTrade ShowsGovernment RelationsMarketingStakeholder ManagementSales StrategyJapanese Defense

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the employment type for this role?

The employment type is International EOR.

What language skills are required for this position?

Fluency in both Japanese and English is required, along with strong written, verbal, and presentation skills.

What is the team structure like for this role?

You will operate on a small team with a demanding work and travel schedule and a very high level of responsibility and accountability.

What qualifications are required for the Business Development Manager role?

A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent military education is required.

What experience is ideal for this position?

The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of Japan’s defense procurement process and demonstrates confidence in engaging with customers, representing Shield AI at industry events, and leading product demonstrations.

Shield AI

Develops AI and autonomous systems for defense

About Shield AI

Shield AI specializes in creating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems specifically for the defense industry. The company develops AI-powered systems, including autonomous drones, that assist military operations, especially in environments where GPS and communication may not be available. This technology allows for safer and more efficient defense operations. Shield AI differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on advanced AI capabilities and securing significant contracts with government and military clients, such as the multi-billion dollar EWAAC contract. The company's goal is to enhance operational capabilities and safety in military contexts, ultimately aiming to protect lives through its innovative solutions.

San Diego, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2015Year Founded

$772.8MTotal Funding

DEBTCompany Stage

AI & Machine Learning, DefenseIndustries

501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Medical Insurance Coverage

Long Term Disability Insurance

Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized Gym Membership

Pet Insurance

Competitive Compensation

Retirement Services

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Bereavement Support

Flexible Work Hours

PTO

Paid Holidays

Commuter Benefits

Relaxed Dress Code

Yearly Swag Items

Unlimited Snacks

Bottomless Beverages

Annual Celebrations

Work From Home Benefits

Standing Desks and Widescreen Monitors

Risks

Increased competition from companies like Waymo could divert investment from Shield AI.

Geopolitical tensions may challenge the JSW Defence partnership for V-BAT production in India.

Dependency on Palantir's infrastructure may limit Shield AI's operational flexibility.

Differentiation

Shield AI's Hivemind is the first autonomous AI pilot deployed in combat since 2018.

Strategic partnerships with Palantir and JSW Defence enhance technological capabilities and market reach.

Shield AI's V-BAT drone is selected for a $198 million U.S. Coast Guard contract.

Upsides

Increased demand for autonomous systems in defense boosts Shield AI's market potential.

Successful multi-aircraft autonomous flight tests showcase advanced AI piloting capabilities.

Significant investment in robotics indicates a robust market for Shield AI's offerings.

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