Director of Business Development

Description Job Title: Director of Business Development Location: Travel throughout assigned territory Reports to: President Compensation Range: $175,000 - $200,000 annually (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications) Other Compensation: Eligible for discretionary bonus Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and travel opportunities The Ceres Commitment Ceres Environmental Services is a leader in crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery, committed to rebuilding stronger, safer communities. Founded in 1976, Ceres has secured more than $3.4 billion in government‑funded contracts, reflecting decades of trust in bringing hope during times of need. We specialize in emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting, including debris removal, blue roofs, logistics, debris management, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration. As a licensed general contractor, we offer unparalleled expertise to restore stability where it’s needed most. Driven by Purpose, Powered by People At Ceres, we believe you’re more than just an employee; you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild. We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them. What We Are Looking For The Director of Business Development is responsible for driving profitable revenue growth by identifying, pursuing, and securing new business opportunities throughout the region. This role serves as the primary growth representative for Ceres, developing strategic relationships with key decision‑makers, expanding existing accounts, creating demand for Ceres' services, and leading pursuit efforts from opportunity identification through contract award. The successful candidate will combine consultative selling, market intelligence, and strategic account management to grow Ceres' presence across Gulf Coast markets while consistently delivering measurable business results through new contract awards and expanded client partnerships. What You Will Do Business Development & Revenue Growth Develop and execute business development strategies that drive profitable revenue growth across the Gulf Coast region. Identify, qualify, and cultivate new business opportunities with state agencies, counties, municipalities, utilities, special districts, ports, transportation authorities, and other public‑sector organizations. Build and maintain a robust pipeline of qualified opportunities that align with Ceres' strategic growth objectives. Develop territory and account plans to increase market penetration and expand Ceres' presence throughout the assigned region. Consistently achieve or exceed annual revenue, contract award, and pipeline growth targets. Strategic Client Relationships Establish and maintain executive‑level relationships with key decision‑makers, influencers, and procurement stakeholders. Serve as a trusted advisor to prospective clients by understanding their operational challenges and aligning Ceres' solutions to their needs. Create opportunities through proactive outreach, networking, industry involvement, and strategic account development. Represent Ceres at industry conferences, association meetings, trade events, and client engagements. Opportunity Identification & Capture Monitor market trends, procurement activity, funding sources, and competitive intelligence to identify emerging opportunities. Lead opportunity qualification, pursuit strategy development, and bid/no‑bid recommendations. Collaborate with proposal, estimating, operations, and executive leadership teams to develop winning capture strategies. Support proposal development, client presentations, interviews, and contract negotiations as required. Maintain accurate opportunity forecasts and pipeline reporting within CRM. Market Development Identify new markets, service lines, and geographic expansion opportunities that support Ceres' long‑term growth strategy. Develop strategic partnerships and alliances that enhance market access and competitive positioning. Analyze competitor activity and recommend strategies to increase market share and differentiate Ceres in the marketplace. Provide leadership with ongoing market intelligence and customer insights. Collaboration & Reporting Partner closely with Operations, Client Services, Estimating, and Executive Leadership to ensure strategic alignment on growth initiatives. Maintain accurate records of business development activity, customer engagement, and opportunity status within CRM. Prepare regular pipeline, revenue forecast, and business development activity reports. Contribute to annual strategic planning, revenue forecasting, and growth initiatives. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree required. 15+ years of progressive business development, sales, account management, government relations, or public sector consulting experience. Experience selling or supporting services to state, local, or federal government clients. Demonstrated success developing and winning government contracts. Knowledge of public procurement processes and government decision‑making structures. Strong network within emergency management, public works, utilities, infrastructure, or municipal government sectors. Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. Proven ability to influence executive‑level stakeholders. Experience managing complex pursuits and multiple opportunities simultaneously. Proficiency with CRM systems and Microsoft Office Suite. Preferred Qualifications Experience in disaster recovery, debris management, emergency management, infrastructure, environmental services, engineering, consulting, construction, or public sector services. Working knowledge of: FEMA Public Assistance Programs USACE contracting Stafford Act programs State emergency management agencies Disaster recovery procurement practices Experience with pre‑event contracting and emergency response programs. What To Expect This is a leadership, high‑accountability, execution‑focused role at the center of Ceres' growth engine in Florida. The Director owns full life cycle capture activities across the state and manages multiple pursuits to ensure excellence in delivery. You will spend significant time developing new business, steering capture/proposal strategy, building relationships with Florida emergency management and procurement officials, and ensuring pursuits are both winnable and executable. Priorities will shift, timelines will compress especially during active disaster events and success will be measured by contract awards and sustained client growth, not activity. Why Join Ceres? At Ceres, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. We offer: A collaborative, mission‑driven culture. Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the U.S. Ceres Environmental is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affiantive Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status. E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility. #J-18808-Ljbffr