To thrive as a Vice President of Defense Business Development, you need deep industry knowledge, a strong track record in sales or business development, and relevant academic credentials such as a bachelor's or master's degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with CRM platforms, government contract management systems, and compliance certifications (such as ITAR or DFARS) is typically required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills help you foster strategic partnerships and lead high-performing teams. These competencies are crucial for identifying growth opportunities, securing government contracts, and driving organizational success in a competitive defense market.