Business Development Manager

We are seeking a highly motivated, customer-facing Business Development Manager to drive specification wins and commercial adoption of Eastman’s circular‑economy offerings in downstream applications. Success in this role depends on front‑end commercial capability: proactive prospecting, rapid customer influence across functions, and repeated on‑site engagement. This is a high‑intensity, field‑first role and requires a self‑directed, competitive seller who thrives on frequent travel and fast ramp‑up with limited formal training. Location Chicago, IL (home base preferred) Responsibilities Generate and qualify target opportunities aligned with business strategy; build and execute account penetration plans. Own front‑end customer engagement: discover unmet needs, map buying processes, and influence specification decisions across procurement, R&D, operations, and senior leadership. Drive specification wins from initial contact to hand‑off: lead customer evaluation processes, steward pilots/trials, present compelling commercial and technical value, and secure adoption/specification. Maintain a high cadence of in‑person customer engagement. Additional Responsibilities Use public and commercial intelligence to refine market approach and prioritize accounts. Collaborate with Account Managers and internal technical resources to ensure smooth transition and scalable delivery once opportunities move to sales. Maintain CRM and opportunity management discipline to prioritize limited capacity and accelerate funnel movement. Requirements Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s or PhD preferred but not required if commercial track record is strong. 5–10+ years of B2B/industrial/business development or strategic account sales with a demonstrated record of winning specifications or converting trials into production business. Proven front‑end commercial skills: prospecting, stakeholder mapping, influencing non‑procurement stakeholders, negotiating specification outcomes. Exceptional verbal communication and presentation skills; comfortable presenting to C‑suite, operations, and technical audiences. Proven track record of thriving in high‑travel, customer‑facing roles (50%+ travel) and managing heavy face‑to‑face cadence. Additional Requirements Self‑starter with high drive, energy, competitive mindset, and ability to prioritize in a lean operating model. Experience with CRM and opportunity management tools. Experience navigating long, matrixed downstream buying processes in packaging, coatings, adhesives, or specialty polymers. (nice‑to‑have) Prior success in circular‑economy or sustainability‑driven product commercialization. (nice‑to‑have) Salary The base salary range for this position is $96,000 to $140,000. Benefits Base pay plus performance‑based incentive opportunities. Comprehensive medical, prescription‑drug, and dental coverage with a Health Savings Account option. Voluntary benefits including vision, optional life, critical‑illness protection, and more. Holistic wellness support: financial‑planning tools, family‑building assistance, parental leave, and Employee Assistance Program counseling. 401(k) with company match and additional annual retirement contribution. Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, and paid time off and vacation. Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs. Equal Employment Opportunity Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr