Deputy Director / Joint Director - Defence and Aerospace Sector

Job Title: Deputy Director / Joint Director - Defence and Aerospace sector

Location: Delhi

Experience: 12-15 years

Qualifications: Master’s degree (MBA / Public Policy / Defence Studies) preferred

Job Purpose

The Defence Sector Specialist will be responsible for driving policy advocacy, industry engagement, and strategic initiatives related to the defence and aerospace sector within the chamber. The role involves close coordination with government stakeholders, armed forces, defence manufacturers, and member organizations to promote sectoral growth and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Policy & Advocacy

• Track and analyze defence policies, procurement frameworks, and regulatory developments.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and recommendations for government submissions.
• Represent the chamber in consultations with ministries and regulatory bodies.

2. Industry Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with defence companies, startups, DPSUs, and global OEMs.
• Address member concerns and provide strategic insights on defence sector developments.
• Facilitate partnerships, joint ventures, and collaborations.

3. Research & Analysis

• Conduct market research on defence manufacturing, exports, and technology trends.
• Develop reports on emerging areas such as indigenization, AI in defence, and cybersecurity.
• Monitor global defence trends and benchmark best practices.

4. Events & Programs

• Conceptualize and execute conferences, roundtables, and delegations.
• Coordinate with stakeholders for defence exhibitions and B2B meetings.
• Prepare content, agendas, and speaker briefs.

5. Stakeholder Coordination

• Liaise with ministries (Defence, Commerce, External Affairs), armed forces, and think tanks.
• Collaborate with international chambers and trade bodies.
• Support government-industry interface initiatives.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Defence Studies / Public Policy / International Relations
• Master’s degree (MBA / Public Policy / Defence Studies) preferred
• Experience in defence sector, government relations, consulting, or policy roles
• Strong understanding of defence procurement procedures and policies
• Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills
• Strong stakeholder management and networking ability
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Skills (Soft and Functional)

• Strategic Leadership: Ability to formulate and execute long-term strategies to build and sustain a robust startup and innovation ecosystem.
• Stakeholder Management: Strong skills in engaging and influencing diverse stakeholders including government officials, industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs.
• Policy Advocacy: Expertise in analysing, developing, and advocating for policies that support startup growth and ease of doing business.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to represent ASSOCHAM effectively and build networks.
• Program Management: Proficiency in designing, implementing, and monitoring startup support programs such as incubation, mentorship, and funding initiatives.
• Financial Acumen: Understanding of funding mechanisms, investment processes, and financial management related to startups and innovation projects.
• Innovation Mindset: Deep understanding of innovation trends, technology commercialization, and entrepreneurship dynamics.
• Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
• Networking: Strong ability to build partnerships and collaborations nationally and internationally.

IT Skills

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for document preparation, data analysis, and presentations.
• Email and Calendar Management using MS Outlook or similar tools for scheduling and coordination.
• Virtual Meeting Platforms (Zoom, MS Teams, Google Meet) for webinars, meetings, and online events.
• Online Research Skills to gather industry data, track policy updates, and prepare briefing notes.
• Familiar with the use of Artificial Intelligence tools, including ChatGPT and similar platforms, for enhancing efficiency and communication. Comfortable working in ERP environments and leveraging digital systems for process optimization and data-driven decision-making.