Business Development Manager
Position Summary
The Manager of Business Development drives strategic growth by expanding customer relationships, growing key products with existing customers, and developing new business opportunities across construction equipment, high-tech, heavy truck, and mining components, as well as distribution and small assembly markets. Working closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams, this role is responsible for increasing revenue, expanding market presence, negotiating and managing customer agreements, and positioning the company as a preferred supplier to OEMs and industrial customers.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Sales Growth
· Develop and execute strategic business development plans to achieve revenue and profitability targets.
· Identify and secure new business opportunities within the forklift, industrial equipment, construction, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.
· Build relationships with OEMs, aftermarket and key industry decision-makers.
· Lead prospecting, customer acquisition, proposal development, customer agreement development, contract negotiations, and account expansion activities.
· Analyze market trends, competitive activity, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities.
Machining & Manufacturing Solutions
· Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to develop customer-specific machining solutions.
· Drive sales growth for precision-machined components and fabricated parts.
· Identify opportunities to expand machining services into new industries and market segments.
· Assist customers with product development, manufacturing feasibility, and sourcing strategies.
High-Tech Market Development
· Expand the company's presence within high-tech OEM and aftermarket markets, including automation, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and intelligent systems.
· Develop strategic relationships with technology manufacturers, system integrators and service providers.
· Identify emerging market trends, customer needs, and growth opportunities across rapidly evolving technology sectors.
· Create and implement programs that drive sales of technology solutions, replacement components, software-enabled products, and lifecycle support services.
Customer Agreements & Commercial Management
· Lead the development, negotiation, execution, and renewal of customer agreements to support strategic business objectives and profitable growth.
· Partner with legal, finance, operations, and executive leadership to ensure agreements align with company capabilities, risk tolerance, and financial goals.
· Manage commercial terms including pricing, volume commitments, delivery expectations, cost recovery, and service level requirements.
· Monitor agreement performance and compliance, addressing issues and facilitating amendments when necessary.
· Maintain strong customer relationships through regular business reviews and proactive contract management.
Leadership & Strategic Planning
· Develop annual business development strategies, new sales forecasts, and growth initiatives.
· Provide leadership and coaching to business development and sales personnel.
· Establish KPIs and monitor performance against revenue, margin, and customer goals.
· Partner with executive leadership on strategic planning, market expansion, and investment opportunities.
· Represent the company at trade shows, industry events, customer meetings, and professional organizations.
SKILL AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS
· Strong business acumen and strategic planning capabilities.
· Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills.
· Understanding of foundry operations, castings, machining processes, and manufacturing economics.
· Ability to analyze market opportunities and develop growth strategies.
· Strong communication, presentation, and leadership skills.
· Proficiency with CRM systems preferred and Microsoft Office applications required.
· Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.
KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
· Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing, or related field required.
· Previous experience in business development, sales, or commercial leadership experience within manufacturing, foundry, machining, casting, or industrial industries.
· Proven track record of developing strategic customer relationships and driving revenue growth.
· Experience working with foundries, castings, machining operations, and industrial supply chains.
· Knowledge of construction machines, heavy truck, forklift components, or related industries preferred.
· Experience negotiating commercial agreements and managing complex customer accounts.
· Demonstrated experience developing, negotiating, and managing customer agreements, including long-term supply agreements, pricing agreements, and other commercial contracts.
· Strong understanding of commercial terms, risk management, contract compliance, and customer relationship management.