Business Development Manager
About The Position
Apera AI is hiring a Business Development Manager to own its Michigan and Ohio territory and expand sales of its AI-driven robotic vision products. The role focuses on manufacturers, automotive Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and industrial OEMs. The manager will build a territory and pipeline, lead technical-commercial sales conversations, develop customer-specific ROI models and proposals, coordinate with Solutions Engineering on proofs of concept and demonstrations, and grow successful plant engagements into multi-site programs. The position involves frequent travel across the territory and selling in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.
Requirements
- 5+ years of B2B business development or technical sales experience in industrial automation, machine vision, robotics, or manufacturing technology.
- Proven track record of building a pipeline from scratch and closing long-cycle, solution-based deals with Tier 1 manufacturers or OEMs.
- Ability to engage both process engineers on plant floors and VP-level buyers in executive conversations.
- Experience collaborating with engineering teams on proposals, proof-of-concept designs, and system demonstrations.
- Deep familiarity with the Michigan and Ohio manufacturing landscape.
- Willingness to travel 50–70%.
Nice To Haves
- Direct experience selling to Tier 1 automotive suppliers, such as Magna, Lear, Aptiv, BorgWarner, Martinrea, or Dana.
- Background in machine vision, 3D vision, or robotics automation software.
- Experience using AI tools for lead generation, pipeline management, or deal forecasting.
Responsibilities
- Identify, qualify, and close six-figure deals with automotive manufacturers, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and industrial OEMs across Michigan and Ohio.
- Build a territory from the ground up using AI-powered lead intelligence, account-based outreach, and a rigorous qualification process.
- Lead technical-commercial conversations with plant engineers, quality directors, and automation leaders to uncover problems and propose solutions.
- Develop ROI models and customized proposals that translate Apera's 4D Vision capabilities into operational value for each customer.
- Collaborate with Solutions Engineering on proof-of-concept scopes, demos, and deployment planning.
- Grow strategic accounts by turning individual plant wins into multi-site programs.
Benefits
- Equity for all employees from day one.
- Growth path at a Series A company.
- Well-funded Series A company supporting product roadmaps and U.S. market expansion.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
