Job Description

Thales people architect solutions at the heart of the defence-security continuum. Interoperable and secure information and telecommunications systems for defence, security, and civil operators, are based upon innovative use of radiocommunications, networks, and cybersecurity. We are ground breaking new digital technologies such as 4G mobile communications, cryptography, cloud computing and big data for use in physical protection systems, and critical information systems.

Elevate your sales career in Zurich by driving the technologies that keep Switzerland safe. You will champion our broader Thales Group portfolio alongside our locally engineered, world-class innovations ranging from secure broadband communications to advanced power solutions. In this role, you will lead our expansion across both domestic and international markets.

We say HI* – welcome to the Thales team! *Human Intelligence

Say HI* – to your career as

Senior Sales Manager

Location: Zurich #LI-HYBRID

As a Senior Sales Manager, you will architect the future of our business in Switzerland and abroad. In this key role, you will shape complex programs, unlock new markets, and build high-value, long-term partnerships. By combining sharp market intelligence with our cross-functional expertise, you will transform ambitious commercial strategies into tangible results.

Your mission:

• Partner closely with Sales Leadership to transform deep customer insights into long-term strategic partnerships.
• Act as a driving force behind our national and international growth by orchestrating everything from collaborative pre-sales initiatives to contract negotiations and after-sales opportunities.
• Design and execute bespoke sales strategies across targeted market segments and regions, supported by our cross-functional experts.
• Grow alongside your clients by helping them solve their challenges while proactively upselling and cross-selling new solutions.
• Lead high-stakes commercial discussions to deliver exceptional value to both the client and the business.
• Advocate for our clients by ensuring the internal alignment of diverse teams to effectively address customer needs and feedback.
• Stay at the forefront of the industry by continuously analyzing market trends, anticipating risks, and uncovering new opportunities
• Master your opportunity pipeline by prioritizing activities and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to drive every opportunity across the finish line.

Your Experience

• 10+ years of professional experience in the defense sector, with a deep understanding of global defense markets, military environments, or advanced technological solutions (preferably communication systems, cybersecurity, electronic warfare, radar, or air defense).
• Proven track record as a Sales, Key Account, or Bid Manager, with extensive experience designing and selling complex defence programs in B2B and B2G environments.
• Strong strategic and entrepreneurial mindset, combining high-level vision with a hands-on approach to identifying opportunities, executing sales strategies, and driving business growth.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, supported by an established network of industrial and governmental stakeholders
• Highly self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments and successfully navigate complex corporate ecosystems.
• Robust analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including hands-on proficiency with CRM software, sales analytics, reporting, and performance management tools.
• Master’s degree in Business Administration or equivalent.
• Fluency in German and English; proficiency in French is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel frequently within Switzerland to customer sites and company locations, as well as internationally as required.

Say HI* – Your Way to Us

For our 83,000 employees in 68 countries, we open up forward-looking perspectives, enable individual career paths, and provide creative freedom. We achieve this through courage, diversity, and a strong commitment to making the challenges of our time safer and more inclusive. With our sustainable and values-driven leadership culture, we actively promote diversity.

When the signs point to change, our international teams are ready to meet today’s complexity with tomorrow’s industry-leading technologies. Are you in?

Camilla Christovam

Talent Acquisition Partner #LI-CC1

At Thales we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working. Great journeys start here, apply now!