Business Development Manager
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Business Development Manager is responsible for locating and executing growth initiatives that align with the company’s strategic vision. This leader will look across the company’s portfolio of specialty food ingredients, with a focus on expanding market share in core business areas and in new areas of growth. This role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, determining if there is a market and company fit/synergy, and commercializing it, and cultivating long-term customer relationships. The Business Development Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, accounting, quality, engineering, and operations to develop and deliver new platforms, products, or partnerships that deliver the company’s growth goals.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Embraces and exemplifies the Didion Code of Ethics and Conduct and adheres to all company policies and standards.
- Identify and develop new business opportunities in target markets, segments, or categories.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, distributors, and industry partners.
- Elevate or expand relationships with current customers.
- Lead the development of customized proposals and presentations in collaboration with technical and marketing teams.
- Monitor market trends, customer feedback, and competitive activity to inform strategy.
- Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements in alignment with company goals.
- Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless onboarding and customer satisfaction.
KEY COMPETENCIES:
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify long-term growth opportunities and align them with company capabilities.
- Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of food ingredients, markets, applications, and customer innovation cycles.
- Relationship Management: Skilled at building trust and credibility with technical and commercial stakeholders.
- Negotiation & Persuasion: Demonstrates strong business acumen and the ability to build alignment, guide conversations, and close complex deals.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works effectively with R&D, operations, and marketing to deliver value-added solutions.
- Market Insight: Keeps a pulse on industry trends, regulatory shifts, and emerging customer needs.
- Communication: Clear, effective communicator with strong presentation and interpersonal skills.
- Effective Bilingual Communication: Demonstrates the ability to engage clearly and professionally in both English and Spanish across written and verbal interactions.
- Results Orientation: Demonstrates a strong drive to achieve meaningful outcomes and deliver impact. Committed to serving customers with excellence and purpose.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Business, Food Science, or related field; MBA or advanced degree a plus.
- 5–10 years of experience in business development, sales, or account management in the food ingredient or food manufacturing industry.
- Bilingual proficiency in Spanish required: must be able to communicate effectively in both English and Spanish, including reading, writing, and speaking.
- Proven track record of driving revenue growth and building strategic partnerships.
- Strong understanding of ingredient functionality, formulation, and customer innovation processes.
- Willingness to travel as needed (up to 30–50%).
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
- Ability to work in both office and plant environments
- Travel is required to company sites, partner facilities, trade shows, market events, association meetings, etc.
- Periodic visits to manufacturing and ethanol production facilities, including exposure to noise, temperature variations, and industrial equipment
- Must be able to stand, walk, and climb for extended periods during site visits
- Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required
Interested in joining our Team? Submit your application by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION.
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