Unmanned Product Manager

Copello is working with a leading organisation within the defence and communications technology sector to recruit an Unmanned Product Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Product Manager with a strong background in Unmanned Systems and associated technologies, including dismounted, mounted and fixed-site communications, edge computing, networking and mission applications.

Working as part of the CTO Office, the successful candidate will report to the VP Unmanned Systems and operate as a key interface between the business and the market. You will work closely with end users, Sales, Finance, Engineering, Customer Service and other internal stakeholders, taking responsibility for the management and development of a dedicated product portfolio comprising both internally developed and third-party products.

The role will involve managing products throughout their lifecycle, from initial concept and business case development through to product launch, market growth and eventual obsolescence. You will play a key role in understanding customer requirements, assessing market opportunities, supporting engineering development and driving successful product launches.

Key Responsibilities

Product Portfolio & Roadmap Management

• Own and manage assigned product family roadmaps, ensuring they remain accurate, relevant and aligned with wider business objectives.

• Maintain up-to-date competitor analysis and go-to-market plans for all products within the portfolio.

• Identify market opportunities, emerging technologies and potential product enhancements.

Business Case Development

• Develop business cases for new products and capabilities, including capturing high-level requirements and defining commercial opportunities.

• Work collaboratively with Engineering and Sales to establish estimated costs, revenues and financial forecasts.

• Undertake financial assessments, including NPV, IRR and payback period analysis.

• Manage business cases through the formal engineering project approval process.

Product Development & Engineering Engagement

• Work closely with Engineering project teams to ensure customer requirements are understood and incorporated into product development.

• Conduct regular Product Management Reviews to assess developed functionality and provide customer-focused feedback.

• Ensure products are fit for purpose and meet operational and market requirements.

Go-To-Market Strategy

• Develop and own go-to-market timelines for products within the assigned portfolio.

• Coordinate launch activities across Engineering, Sales, Marketing and Manufacturing.

• Drive the execution of product launch plans, ensuring all relevant business functions are aligned and deliver against agreed milestones.

Product Pricing & Commercial Management

• Establish product part numbers, pricing structures, discount frameworks and product categories in collaboration with senior management.

• Work with Sales Support to develop and maintain product configuration tools.

• Participate in regular pricing reviews and ensure commercial positioning remains competitive.

Product Lifecycle Management

• Take ownership of assigned product families throughout their lifecycle, from initial concept and introduction through to ongoing development and eventual retirement.

• Monitor product performance, market relevance and customer requirements to identify opportunities for improvement or rationalisation.

Marketing & Sales Support

• Work with Marketing to ensure new products are supported by comprehensive datasheets, website content, product information sheets and catalogue entries.

• Develop and deliver technical presentations on products, technologies and solutions to internal stakeholders and external customers.

• Support the wider global sales organisation through technical engagement and customer-facing activities.

Bids & Proposals

• Review bids and proposals, providing technical input and product-related expertise where required.

• Support estimating and proposal development activities.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a Product Management role, ideally within the defence, communications or technology sectors.

• Strong understanding of Unmanned Systems, including current technologies, global industry trends and relevant programmes.

• Knowledge of applicable unmanned systems compliance requirements and industry standards.

• Familiarity with RF and general electronics laboratory test equipment.

• Strong commercial awareness and experience working in customer-facing environments.

• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and organisational skills.

• Proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience in bidding, estimating and proposal writing would be advantageous.

Technical Background

• Degree in Electronic Engineering or a related technical discipline.

• In-depth knowledge of modern wireless communications technologies, including IP Mesh systems.

• Strong understanding of IP networking principles and architectures.

• Broader knowledge of communications systems, networking and associated technologies within unmanned and defence applications.

Personal Attributes

• Strong commitment to professional standards and organisational values.

• A proactive approach to Health, Safety and Environmental responsibilities, with a focus on maintaining a safe working environment.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Highly organised, analytical and commercially minded.

• Able to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Additional Information

• Domestic and international travel will be required.

• Existing security clearance would be advantageous.