Client Partner – Aerospace & Defense (Strategic Accounts / Engineering Services)

We’re engineering the future of aerospace and defense. If you thrive on tackling complex challenges and delivering solutions where precision and reliability are non-negotiable, we want you on our team. Here, your expertise powers mission-critical systems that safeguard lives, advance technology, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Join us and bring your skills to work where innovation meets impact. 

Quest Defense Systems and Solutions is growing and looking for a Client Partner to lead and grow strategic accounts within the Aerospace & Defense sector, driving revenue, profitability, and long-term partnerships. This role is ideal for a consultative sales leader who understands engineering services and digital transformation and can translate customer needs into high-value solutions.

You’ll own the full account lifecycle—from relationship building and opportunity creation to deal closure and account expansion—while partnering with delivery and leadership teams to scale impact across complex A&D programs.

Location: Cincinnati, OH (onsite/hybrid as applicable)
Requirement: U.S. Citizenship required

Key Responsibilities

• Own and grow strategic aerospace & defense accounts ($8M+ revenue)
• Build and maintain executive-level client relationships
• Drive full business development lifecycle (prospect → qualify → propose → close)
• Develop and execute account growth strategies (SWOT, whitespace, competitive positioning)
• Lead solution-based selling across engineering and digital services
• Identify and drive cross-sell / up-sell opportunities
• Partner with delivery teams to ensure successful execution and client satisfaction
• Lead proposal development, pricing strategy, and contract negotiations
• Manage forecasting, revenue targets, and profitability (P&L ownership)
• Expand accounts across new programs, geographies, and service lines

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in account management, business development, or sales
• Proven success managing and growing large strategic accounts ($8M–$10M+)
• Experience in Aerospace & Defense industry
• Strong understanding of engineering services and digital solutions
• Experience selling into technical stakeholders and executive leadership
• Demonstrated success in complex deal structuring, pricing, and negotiations
• Bachelor’s degree required (MBA preferred)
• U.S. Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with engineering lifecycle services (systems, embedded, mechanical, software)
• Domain expertise in:
• Avionics, navigation, mission systems
• Aero engines, controls, sensors
• Aircraft / spacecraft systems integration
• Familiarity with standards such as DO-178, DO-254, ARINC, FACE, MOSA
• Experience with outsourcing, global delivery models, and vendor management
• Strong network within A&D OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers

Why QDSS Solutions: 

We’re a family-like-company. We are collaborative. We believe in embracing change. We believe in doing consistent good work. QDSS houses smart, curious and passionate about “making a difference” people.  Our company culture sets us apart from others as well as: 

• 401k with Employer-Match Contributions
• Medical, Dental, and Life coverage
• Disability Benefits
• Generous compensation structure
• Significant opportunities for advancement
• Next Generation / Cutting Edge Technology Projects
• Certification Assistance Available (Approval Required)
• Flexible, Friendly and Fun work environment

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You’ll Find Here 

• Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 
• Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 
• A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

• Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace. 

QDSS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.