About Vikra Ocean Tech
Vikra Ocean Tech is a pioneering, well-funded deeptech startup based in Chennai, specializing in indigenous ocean robotics and marine technology solutions. We design and manufacture Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs), amphibious robots, and AI-enabled deep-sea imaging systems. Our mission is to reduce reliance on imported underwater robotics by delivering cost-effective, mission-ready systems for defense, subsea inspection, hydrographic surveys, and the blue economy
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Business Head will be the primary driver of Vikra Ocean Tech’s commercial and strategic growth. Transitioning from pipeline execution to high-level strategy, this executive role focuses on defining the go-to-market strategy, overseeing all B2G (Business-to-Government) and B2B revenue streams, managing the business development team, and scaling the company's footprint across national defence and commercial maritime sectors. You will be responsible for overall revenue targets and establishing Vikra as the premier indigenous underwater robotics provider.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic Leadership: Design and execute the overarching sales and market expansion strategy for both defence (Navy, Coast Guard) and commercial (offshore energy, maritime infrastructure) sectors.
- Revenue & Pipeline Management: Take ownership of the company’s revenue targets. Oversee the entire sales funnel from initial lead generation to the final closing of high-value contracts and tenders.
- Team Building & Mentorship: Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing business development and technical sales team. Set KPIs, conduct performance reviews, and drive team success.
- Executive Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain C-level and Flag-officer level relationships within the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Naval Headquarters, DRDO, NIOT, and top-tier DPSUs.
- Bid Oversight & Strategy: Serve as the final commercial authority on large-scale government tenders, RFPs, and iDEX challenges. Navigate complex Make-in-India and Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) guidelines to maximize win probability.
- Cross-Functional Alignment: Work directly with the Founders and R&D heads to align product development roadmaps with emerging market demands and institutional requirements.
KEY KPIS
- Overall Revenue Achieved: Total booked revenue and contract value against quarterly/annual targets.
- Tender Win Rate: Percentage of successful bids and formal contracts secured from the active pipeline.
- Team Performance: Aggregate success of the BD team in meeting individual lead generation and conversion metrics.
- Strategic Partnerships: Number of joint ventures, MoU closures, or strategic alliances formed with Tier-1 defense contractors or global partners.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's/Master's in Engineering, Defence Studies, or a related field.
- MBA from a premier institute is highly preferred.
EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
- 5-10 years of extensive experience in business development, sales leadership, or P&L management within the defence, aerospace, or deeptech sectors.
- Proven track record of closing high-value.
- Deep, authoritative understanding of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), GeM, iDEX frameworks, and L1/L2 bidding dynamics.
- Executive presence with exceptional negotiation, communication, and strategic planning skills.
- Strong domain knowledge in robotics, marine systems, UAVs, or autonomous systems is highly advantageous.
JOIN VIKRA OCEAN TECH
Work on cutting-edge underwater robotics & autonomous defence systems Direct impact on national-level defence and strategic projects
JOIN VIKRA OCEAN TECH Work on cutting-edge underwater robotics & autonomous defence systems Direct impact on national-level defence and strategic projects Fast-growing, innovation-driven start up environment COMPENSATION Competitive salary + performance-linked incentives Leadership role with high growth potential give for business head
COMPENSATION Competitive salary + performance-linked incentives Leadership role with high growth potential give for business head
Work Location: In person