What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Business Development – INDOPACOM position at Allen Control Systems?
Company Overview
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.
Position Overview
As the Director of Business Development for INDOPACOM, you will be responsible for expanding ACS programs, partnerships, and capture activities within the Indo Pacific region. You will lead all aspects of regional customer engagement with US DoD and foreign military organizations aligned to INDOPACOM priorities. This role involves both strategic planning and hands-on opportunity execution. Success requires strong understanding of regional military requirements, unmanned system threats, and procurement pathways. You will collaborate closely with executives, engineering, and program leadership to win and secure new business.
What You Will Do
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders' successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.
Position Overview
As the Director of Business Development for INDOPACOM, you will be responsible for expanding ACS programs, partnerships, and capture activities within the Indo Pacific region. You will lead all aspects of regional customer engagement with US DoD and foreign military organizations aligned to INDOPACOM priorities. This role involves both strategic planning and hands-on opportunity execution. Success requires strong understanding of regional military requirements, unmanned system threats, and procurement pathways. You will collaborate closely with executives, engineering, and program leadership to win and secure new business.
What You Will Do
- Own and drive business development strategy across INDOPACOM aligned customer sets
- Identify, shape, and capture opportunities across US service components and allied partners
- Develop relationships with key decision makers, program offices, and operational usersInfluence requirements based on evolving threats from small drones and loitering munitions
- Lead proposal development, teaming strategies, and contractual engagements
- Represent ACS during demonstrations, tradeshows, and regional engagements
- Communicate market feedback directly to engineering teams for product evolution
- Support international approvals, export processes, and licensing requirements
- 7 years of defense business development experience focused on INDOPACOM stakeholders
- Existing relationships across USN, USAF, US Army Pacific, SOF elements, or regional partners
- Strong understanding of counter UAS, integrated air defense, or autonomous weapon systems
- Proven track record of capture success with US DoD or FMS funded programs
- Ability to operate independently in high tempo, ambiguous environments
- Bachelor degree in engineering, business, international affairs, or related field
- Ability to travel frequently both domestic and international
- Competitive salary
- ACS Equity Package
- Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off