Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager - Chicago, IL Business Development Manager role includes developing, executing, and overseeing a business strategy that prioritizes growth and positive customer relationships. The BDM grows sales through networking and relationship building between new and existing customers as well as third‑party influencers. The role ensures customer satisfaction from proposal through project completion and works closely with interior design, sales support, installation teams, and partner vendors to exceed customer expectations. Key Responsibilities Conduct high-level industry research to identify new and existing customers. Manage day‑to‑day relationships with existing customers. Prospect the local market for new furniture and architectural product opportunities through networking and cold calling. Develop local business relationships with third‑party influencers (commercial real estate companies, A&D firms, moving companies, etc.) to identify potential opportunities. Drive sales and profitability by leading the sales process, including the development of creative and innovative solutions to meet customer needs. Involve key stakeholders in the development of a winning sales plan. Collaborate with interior design team to provide solutions that meet customer’s functional, aesthetic and budget requirements. Provide complete and timely communication from proposal to execution to minimize cost, improve coordination and create an extraordinary customer experience. Partner with internal and external installation teams to complete project, exceed customer expectations and build referral base. Facilitate customer requests for pricing, specifications, information and other service requirements, including providing quotes, determining gross profits, negotiating pricing and terms, cost/benefit analysis, reviewing finishes and options. Exceed assigned sales quota and gross profit objectives. Utilize and continually update corporate CRM system. Provide timely and accurate sales forecast. Build and maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending company and vendor‑sponsored education and product workshops as well as through independent study. Desired Skills Hunter mentality: Prospecting, lead generation, sharp negotiation and networking skills. Communicates/Collaborates Effectively: Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills. Ability to tailor messages across a variety of audiences. Strong interpersonal skills; develops and maintains positive relationships. Strong team player. Demonstrates Accountability: Strong self‑discipline and motivation. Shows initiative, takes responsibility for work and actions, and a high level of integrity. Strategizes and Problem Solves: Problem‑solving orientation; critical thinking skills; understands how their work relates to the whole; generates new ideas that add value; ability to seek out appropriate information to make effective decisions. Excellent analytical and strategic problem‑solving skills: highly developed understanding of company’s strategic direction and ability to interpret and communicate senior management direction. Clearly defines, gathers, analyzes, and focuses on the most relevant information. Synthesizes complex information. Continuous Learner: Self‑directed, learns and advances from experiences and feedback, stays informed of industry trends, products, and applications. Execution Management: Works quickly to get things done; uses resources effectively; detail oriented and high level of accuracy. Owns execution of tasks and demonstrates excellent follow through. Drives for results and fosters a sense of urgency. Demonstrates Courage: Appropriately challenges and debates; creates positive tension to drive success; takes risks and champions new ideas. Strong Consultative Skills: Ability to work effectively and persuasively with a highly cross‑functional group of business partners. Job Requirements Bachelor’s degree or applicable job experience. Two to three years of business‑to‑business sales experience. High personal performance standards with a desire for continuous learning. Consultative sales skills with strong relationship‑based mentality. Ability to work directly with business owners, executives, and decision makers. Ability to work independently and within a team environment. Knowledge of office furniture industry or the built environment (preferred but not required). Proficient computer skills; experience utilizing CRM software a plus. Willingness to travel as required; must be able to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodation. 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