D

Darley

Manufactures firefighting and defense equipment

Force Lead - Army

Full-TimeUpdated on 10/23/2026
No salary listed
Senior, Expert
Bachelor's, Master's
Remote in USA
RemoteRemote position; ideally Midwest-based. Requires travel up to 40%. Ideally based in the Midwest region of the U.S.
Sales & Account ManagementField Sales

About the job

Requirements
  • A bachelor's degree, or extensive experience in U.S. government or U.S. military leadership roles.
  • A master's degree in a business-related study or Defense Strategic Studies.
  • Retired military experience with acquisition, government procurement, or supply experience.
  • Five to ten years of experience selling to government agencies or working in acquisition fields within government.
  • Working experience with the Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel, for business analysis and reporting.
  • Understanding of government contracts and purchasing vehicles.
  • Ability to travel up to 40%, including to Army and joint command outposts, program, logistics, and acquisition offices.
  • Ability to use customer relationship management systems.
  • Understanding of basic business financial concepts.
  • Strong public speaking ability and command presence.
  • Ability to organize and multitask.
  • Strong written and oral communication.
  • Ability to build teams and provide exceptional customer service.
Responsibilities
  • Understand Darley products, services, contract benefits, and value proposition, and communicate these during direct sales activities.
  • Develop and implement the assigned team's execution plan to meet or exceed business objectives and revenue goals.
  • Lead and manage the sales team by providing coaching, training, and support to achieve sales goals and improve individual and team performance.
  • Hold team calls and establish accountability for tasks, reporting, awareness, and short- and long-term activities.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with key customers and partners, and understand their business objectives and needs.
  • Analyze company and Defense Logistics Agency sales data to identify opportunities and trends, forecast sales, and adjust plans to achieve goals.
  • Monitor competitor activity to identify opportunities and inform sales strategies and planning for division leadership and cross-functional managers.
  • Prepare and deliver sales presentations and proposals, and teach, train, and observe the team in doing so.
  • Manage sales operations, including developing sales budgets, setting sales quotas, ensuring customer engagement frequency, and overseeing accurate use of Salesforce.
  • Collaborate with Marketing, Finance, Legal, and Product Development to align and maximize sales efforts.
  • Ensure compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures related to government sales and company operations.
  • Attract, hire, and retain sales resources aligned with the sales plan and strategic goals.
Desired Qualifications
  • Top Secret security clearance is preferred.

About the company

Darley manufactures and distributes equipment for firefighting and defense, including fire trucks, fire pumps, PPE, and other firefighting tools, and provides tactical and robotic gear to the U.S. Department of Defense. Its products work by supplying water and pressure through fire pumps and apparatus, protecting responders with PPE, and supporting military and emergency operations with robotics and tactical gear. The company differentiates itself through a long family history dating back to 1908, private ownership, financial stability, and long-standing relationships, along with in-house manufacturing in Wisconsin and Iowa and direct/global distribution to municipal, emergency, and defense clients. The goal is to deliver reliable, durable equipment and dependable support to first responders and defense customers while maintaining steady growth through established partnerships.

Company Size

51-200

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Itasca, Illinois

Founded

1908

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • NASA awarded Darley a SEWP VI position on September 21, 2026.
  • Darley says defense sales topped $1 billion and supports the 3B30 plan.
  • Lee Wise became president on January 1, 2026, sharpening succession.

What critics are saying

  • Darley depends heavily on federal and municipal procurement cycles, which swing sharply.
  • Pierce, Oshkosh, and specialty defense rivals pressure margins in apparatus and contracts.
  • If 3B30 misses, Darley stays a niche supplier, not a scaled platform.

What makes Darley unique

  • Since 1908, Darley combines family control, manufacturing, and distribution across fire and defense.
  • Its portfolio spans pumps, apparatus, PPE, robotics, and unmanned systems.
  • Former General Votel and fire veteran Taylor strengthen customer credibility immediately.

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Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • 401(k) Company Match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Company News

GlobeNewswire
Oct 20th, 2026
Ascent Solar Technologies establishes partnership with Darley Defense to expand thin-film solar product access across defense and government markets.

Ascent Solar Technologies establishes partnership with Darley Defense to expand thin-film solar product access across defense and government markets. THORNTON, Colo., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASTI) ("Ascent" or the "Company"), the leading U.S. innovator in the design and manufacturing of featherweight, flexible thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solutions, today announced a new partnership with Darley Defense, a leading global provider of defense, fire and emergency services equipment, to expand access to Ascent's thin-film PV products throughout defense, federal, space and public sector markets. The partnership will combine Ascent's CIGS solar products with Darley Defense's established procurement channels and robust reach across the defense and government sectors. This further enables market penetration and supports the Company's ongoing mission to simplify how military and government customers evaluate, procure and deploy its advanced solar solutions to meet a broad range of power generation needs. Ascent's thin-film products are uniquely suited to thrive within expeditionary operations in punishing environments with limited access to power sources that often render conventional energy solutions inoperable. Thin-film PV's lightweight, flexible design allows for extended field operations by alleviating dependence on batteries that regularly need time to recharge. "This partnership with Darley Defense advances our commercial strategy of growing our presence in defense, space and other high-value industries in need of durable, reliable power solutions in strenuous conditions," said Paul Warley, Chief Executive Officer of Ascent Solar Technologies. "As military operations become increasingly reliant on advanced electronics deployed in dangerous environments, the durability of our thin-film products will play a crucial role in providing the power generation needed to carry out mission objectives. Together, with Darley Defense's established relationships within these markets, we plan to accelerate the adoption of our thin-film solar technology for applications in need of reduced logistical burdens and enhanced operational efficiency." The partnership opens opportunities for Ascent's technology to be incorporated across a wide range of defense and government applications, such as dismounted military operations, tactical communications equipment, remote sensors, unmanned aerial sensors (UAS), mobile command-and-control infrastructure and other mission-critical systems that require reliable expeditionary power. About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. Backed by 40 years of R&D, 15 years of manufacturing experience, numerous awards, and a comprehensive IP and patent portfolio, Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative, high-performance, flexible thin-film solar panels, optimized for use in space, military and defense, and other applications where mass, performance, reliability, and resilience are paramount. Ascent's photovoltaic (PV) modules have been deployed on space missions, multiple airborne vehicles, agrivoltaic installations, in industrial/commercial construction as well as an extensive range of consumer goods, revolutionizing the use cases and environments for solar power. Ascent Solar's research and development center and 5-MW nameplate production facility is in Thornton, Colorado. Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release that are not statements of historical or current fact constitute "forward-looking statements" including statements about the financing transaction, our business strategy, and the potential uses of the proceeds from the transaction. Such statements also include, but are not limited to, statements related to the intended use of proceeds from the offering and the potential exercise of the series warrants. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unknown factors that could cause the company's actual operating results to be materially different from any historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current assumptions, expectations, and projections about future events. In addition to statements that explicitly describe these risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements that contain terms such as "will," "believes," "belief," "expects," "expect," "intends," "intend," "anticipate," "anticipates," "plans," "plan," to be uncertain and forward-looking. No information in this press release should be construed as any indication whatsoever of our future revenues, stock price, or results of operations. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in our most recently filed reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. Media Contact

FFL Search
Sep 29th, 2026
Darley welcomes Jack "J." Taylor III to Fire Advisory Board.

Darley welcomes Jack "J." Taylor III to Fire Advisory Board. By Eric G - Published September 29, 2026 ITASCA, IL - September 29, 2026 - Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jack "J." Taylor III to its Fire Advisory Board. Jack "J." Taylor III brings more than three decades of fire service leadership to the Darley Fire Advisory Board. A retired Fire [...] Related Topics:

Citybiz
Sep 17th, 2026
Rescue Intellitech adds Chuck Evans and Nick Samp as regional sales managers.

Rescue Intellitech adds Chuck Evans and Nick Samp as regional sales managers. September 17, 2026 Chuck Evans and Nick Samp Rescue Intellitech Inc. has appointed Chuck Evans and Nick Samp as regional sales managers, expanding its North American sales organization as the firefighter decontamination technology company seeks to deepen relationships with fire departments and equipment dealers. Evans will oversee Rescue Intellitech's Eastern Territory, while Samp will manage the Central Territory. Both will report to Mickey Edwards, vice president of sales, and will focus on expanding the company's presence with fire service customers and channel partners. The appointments add two executives with different backgrounds to the sales organization. Evans brings more than 30 years of experience with the Baltimore County Fire Department, providing direct knowledge of fire department operations and equipment requirements. Most recently, Evans served as sales manager at W.S. Darley, where his responsibilities included dealer development. That combination of fire service experience and distribution relationships is expected to support Rescue Intellitech's expansion across its eastern markets. Samp joins the company from Kroll International, where he managed key accounts. Before Kroll, he held leadership positions overseeing multi-unit operations in the restaurant industry. Based in Michigan, he will apply that account management and operational experience to Rescue Intellitech's Central Territory. "Chuck and Nick bring two very different and highly complementary skill sets to Rescue Intellitech," Edwards said. He pointed to Evans' decades in the fire service and Samp's experience managing key accounts and multi-location operations as strengths for the company's sales strategy. The expansion comes as firefighter health concerns are increasing attention on decontamination practices following fire responses. Toxic contaminants can remain on turnout gear and firefighting equipment after exposure at fire scenes, making equipment cleaning an important part of efforts to reduce firefighters' contact with potentially carcinogenic substances. That shift is creating a more specialized market for equipment designed around firefighter decontamination. Rescue Intellitech develops systems for cleaning personal protective equipment, including its Solo Rescue decontamination washer, which is designed to remove contaminants from firefighting equipment. For suppliers in the category, adoption depends not only on equipment performance but also on relationships with individual departments, dealers and other fire service organizations. Expanding regional sales coverage gives Rescue Intellitech additional capacity to work directly with departments while strengthening the dealer network through which specialized firefighting equipment reaches customers. Evans' operational experience within a fire department could be particularly relevant to those conversations, providing familiarity with how equipment purchasing and decontamination procedures fit into everyday fire service operations. Samp, meanwhile, brings experience managing larger customer relationships and geographically distributed operations. "Their experience, relationships, and understanding of the markets we serve will be important as we enter the next phase of our growth," Edwards said. Rescue Intellitech is part of Sandberg Development Group and provides decontamination technology for personal protective equipment. While firefighters are a core market, the company also serves other industries where workplace safety requires specialized equipment cleaning. The broader Sandberg Development Group includes Aimpoint, Gaim, Nordisk and Camurus. Rescue Intellitech's product portfolio centers on reducing contamination exposure while helping departments maintain equipment and operational readiness. Adding Evans and Samp gives the company dedicated leadership across two major North American territories as it works to translate increased attention to firefighter decontamination into wider department and dealer adoption. Their appointments also strengthen a relationship-driven sales model in a market where purchasing decisions are closely tied to operational requirements, safety practices and trust within the fire service.

Hand Media International
Aug 18th, 2026
Darley named among fastest growing US companies.

Darley named among fastest growing US companies. Darley is featured in the 2026 Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States. In brief. Darley has been ranked on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list, recognising the fastest growing private companies in America. The annual ranking celebrates independent businesses achieving significant growth while supporting innovation, employment and economic development. Previous honorees include Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Oracle and Patagonia. Across this year's 5,000 companies, the median three year revenue growth rate reached 130 per cent. Collectively, businesses on the list have added more than 627,208 jobs to the US economy over three years. Darley has been ranked number 2026 on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest growing private companies in America. The annual list recognises successful independent and entrepreneurial businesses that have achieved significant growth while contributing to innovation, job creation and the wider economy. Previous Inc. 5000 honourees include Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Oracle and Patagonia. US business growth recognised. The 2026 Inc. 5000 features companies operating across sectors including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, consumer products and professional services. According to Inc., the businesses included in this year's ranking are expanding their impact and creating employment while demonstrating the continuing contribution of entrepreneurial businesses to the US economy. Companies deliver 130 per cent growth. Across the 5,000 companies included in the 2026 list, the median three year revenue growth rate was 130%. Collectively, the companies have added more than 627,208 jobs to the US economy during the past three years. The complete Inc. 5000 list also includes company profiles and can be searched by industry and location. Paul Darley, CEO and Chairman of Darley, said: "Being named to the Inc. 5000 is an incredible honour and a testament to the dedication of its employees, the trust of its customers, and the strength of its partnerships. "As a fourth-generation family-owned company, we remain committed to delivering innovative solutions that support first responders, warfighters, and the communities they serve. This recognition reflects the hard work of our entire team and our continued focus on creating lasting value for our customers." Mike Hofman, Editor-in-Chief of Inc, said: "Every company on the Inc. 5000 has a story of perseverance, smart decision making, and a refusal to sit still. Their growth reflects more than strong financial performance-it reflects creativity, resilience, and the customer focus required to build companies that make a lasting impact. We congratulate all honourees on this significant achievement." About Fire Buyer. International Fire Buyer is the leading authority in global passive and active fire content, delivering expert news, in-depth articles, exclusive interviews, and industry insights across print, digital, and event platforms. Published 10 times a year, the magazine is a trusted resource for professionals seeking updates and analysis on the latest developments in the fire sector. To submit an article, or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact its team.

FFL Search
Aug 12th, 2026
Darley named No. 2026 on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of America's fastest-growing private companies.

Darley named No. 2026 on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of America's fastest-growing private companies. By Eric G - Published August 12, 2026 Company Recognized for Three-Year Revenue Growth, Earning a Place Among the Nation's Most Successful Independent Businesses Itasca, Illinois, August 12, 2026 - Darley today announced it has been ranked No. 2026 on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list, the annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list is the most prestigious ranking of [...] Related Topics: