Business Developer – Business Development Lead

Purpose

The Business Development Lead is a pivotal role that drives company growth by identifying new market opportunities, developing client relationships, and advancing strategic business objectives. This position requires a proactive, results-oriented individual with robust communication and negotiation abilities to support business expansion within the USA and Canadian markets. The role works closely with cross-functional teams to achieve monthly sales goals and enhance client satisfaction, aligning with the company's growth vision.

Expected Outcomes

• Consistent achievement of monthly and annual sales targets.
• Increased client satisfaction and retention through effective relationship management.
• Successful identification and penetration of new business opportunities in target markets.
• Effective cross-functional collaboration to support client needs, address market demands, and improve sales performance.
• Timely feedback on client needs, market trends, and business conditions influencing sales strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Sales and Strategy Development: Design and execute comprehensive sales strategies to meet and exceed targets, with progress presented to senior management monthly.
• Market Expansion and Client Acquisition: Identify new business opportunities and develop targeted strategies to pursue clients in the USA and Canada.
• Relationship Management: Build, maintain, and strengthen client relationships through regular check-ins and follow-ups to ensure ongoing satisfaction and identify upsell opportunities.
• Negotiation and Contracts: Negotiate client contracts, covering pricing, terms, and conditions to secure mutually beneficial agreements.
• Project and Financial Management: Apply strong project management skills to oversee business initiatives and ensure financial targets are met.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams (operations, sales, product development, logistics) to support the company's growth and service delivery.
• Account Management: Manage client accounts by tracking activity, updating client data, and ensuring accurate billing and payments.
• Feedback and Reporting: Provide strategic insights based on client feedback, market analysis, and industry trends to refine and enhance business strategies.

Core Competencies

• Entrepreneurial Drive: Self-motivated with the ability to take ownership of successes and setbacks.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written skills for managing client relationships and cross-functional collaboration.
• Negotiation Skills: Proficiency in negotiating to achieve favorable outcomes and resolve client issues.
• Customer Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and fulfilling client needs.
• Adaptability: Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities.
• Leadership: Strong organizational skills and the ability to lead projects and teams to achieve shared goals.

Skills and Accomplishments

• Demonstrated experience in business development, specifically within the US market.
• Established network of contacts with US retailers and food service buyers.
• Proven track record of launching and marketing new products successfully.
• Proficiency in MS Office, especially PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.
• Problem-solving skills with a proactive, creative approach to overcoming challenges.
• High ethical standards with a commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in sales and marketing, with a focus on the US market.
• Strong ability to travel to the United States as required.
• Valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, deliver accurate results, and work independently or as part of a team.

About the Company

We are an award-winning agribusiness with a 20+ year history of creating innovative, sustainable solutions within the food industry. Our team is passionate about positively impacting the global food supply chain from seed to shelf, and we are deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, impacting thousands of rural smallholder farmers. Join us to contribute to meaningful change in global food sustainability.