Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager

Schaumburg, IL

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.

Since our start in 1962, we have built industry relationships on the foundation of trust and action. We turn information into insight. We convert insight into programs. We drive programs that consistently deliver results to our clients, on their timeline.

We have more than 300 associates and multiple offices throughout the country. We represent top brands in many categories such as confection, snack, grocery, beverage, frozen, dairy etc.

Overview of the Role

The Business Development Manager drives revenue growth by managing client relationships, executing sales strategies, and expanding market presence. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

At C.A. we're not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to us and grow their careers long-term. If you're looking for a sign to apply, here it is!

Pay Range: $60,000-$67,000

Primary Responsibilities

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned clients.
• Build trust-based relationships and ensure alignment with client goals.
• Act as a client advocate internally to deliver exceptional service.

Sales Strategy & Execution

• Coordinate product information, pricing, promotional details, and sales story for customer presentations.
• Prepare presentations and supplemental materials for seasonal line reviews with buyers, focusing on assortment, promotional planning, and execution.
• Support the execution of product placement, promotional programs, and other seasonal initiatives.

Business Development Support

• Identify opportunities for sales growth within existing accounts.
• Monitor competitive products and marketplace activity and share observations with client partners.
• Support efforts to grow seasonal business through customer focused recommendations.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Compile sales reports and assist in analyzing sales performance and market trends.
• Maintain customer reports, item lists, and promotional tracking documents.
• Help identify opportunities or issues by reviewing sales data and communicating findings to the team.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Sales Support, Analytics, Supply Chain, and Order Management teams to ensure timely execution of customer programs.
• Coordinate internal follow-up on customer requests; promotions, marketing materials, inventory issues, etc.
• Assist with project timelines and help ensure key deliverables are completed on schedule.

Skills & Qualifications

• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive relationships with stakeholders.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the confidence to participate and take lead in buyer meetings, executive reviews, and high impact presentations.
• Analytical Thinking: Comfortable with Excel and sales data to identify trends and support business decisions.
• Strategic & Commercial Thinking: Ability to develop and execute account strategies that align client objectives with company goals, driving sustainable growth.
• Organization & Time Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.
• Presentation Skills: Ability to create clear, professional presentations using PowerPoint or similar tools.
• Collaboration: Team oriented mindset with a willingness to learn from others and contribute across departments.
• Problem Solving: Demonstrates initiative in identifying issues and helping find practical solutions.
• Adaptability: Eager to learn in a fast-paced environment and able to adjust to changing priorities.
• Technology Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint; experience with syndicated data (Circana, Nielsen) a plus but not required.

Perks

• PTO and Sick Days
• 11 paid company holidays per year
• 1 Floating Holiday
• 2 paid volunteer days per year
• 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender)
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Paid company life insurance
• 401k with company match
• Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
• Work from home flexibility

Come As You Are

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.