Business Development Manager - Show & Event Services

INSPIRE • Chicago, IL

36d • Remote

About The Position

INSPIRE is a global leader in event production services, delivering more than 2,500 live events annually across the United States, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Since 1986, weve built our reputation on producing powerful and memorable live experiences by seamlessly integrating creative, technical, and audiovisual (AV) expertise. Our Show & Event Services division partners with corporations, associations, and venues to provide end-to-end event production solutionsfrom strategic planning and creative execution to flawless AV integration. At INSPIRE, our people, our innovation, and our passion for excellence are the keys to our success. Were seeking a driven Business Development Manager to lead growth initiatives across the Greater Chicago and Midwest Markets. This role is remote but will need to reside within the market they are developing. This is a field-based role responsible for developing new business, expanding customer relationships, and executing strategic sales strategies throughout both metro areas. Reporting to the VP of Business Development, this individual will be responsible for cultivating client relationships, generating new business opportunities, and expanding our presence in the corporate, association, and hospitality markets. Candidates must be able to consistently cover the full territory, including regular travel between the greater Austin and San Antonio regions, including surrounding suburbs and zip codes commonly considered part of each market. This role blends strategic consultative sales with hands-on business developmentpositioning INSPIRE as the trusted partner for organizations seeking full-scale, integrated event production services.

Requirements

• 35 years of business development or sales experience in live event production (AV preferred).
• Demonstrated success in generating qualified leads and managing complex sales cycles for live event production services.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, particularly with C-level executives and senior decision-makers.
• Highly self-motivated, organized, and performance-driven, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Proficiency with CRM platforms (Salesforce is a plus) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bachelors degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Generate leads, develop pipelines, and secure new Show & Event Services business.
• Build long-term partnerships with corporations, associations, and venues by positioning INSPIREs end-to-end production capabilities.
• Conduct consultative sales conversations focused on creative, logistical, and technical event solutions.
• Cultivate and grow existing client accounts, ensuring repeat business and increased share year over year.
• Collaborate with internal creative, technical, and production teams to develop tailored proposals.
• Support contract execution and renewals in collaboration with Finance and the VP of Business Development.
• Represent INSPIRE at client meetings, trade shows, and industry events to expand brand presence.
• Maintain an active role in San Antonio and Austin-area event and hospitality associations.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package with salary and uncapped bonus
• Comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Disability, Paid Time Off, 401(k), and more.
• A culture built on innovation, teamwork, integrity, and results.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Industry: Administrative and Support Services
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees