Business Development Manager - Manufacturing

Cogent Talent Solutions•Asheville, NC

1d•$50,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Sales Manager (SM) is responsible for driving business development, cultivating strong customer relationships, and managing a multi-million-dollar book of business. This role combines technical expertise with consultative selling to deliver tailored process solutions for customers across multiple industries. The SM identifies and secures new business opportunities, manage a sales pipeline from prospecting through close, maximizes penetration of existing accounts, and provides expert-level product and application knowledge. Reporting to the CEO, the SM collaborates with internal teams and Production Manager to ensure profitability, customer satisfaction, and long-term growth. This role is well suited to a self-directed, results-driven sales professional with a strong background in manufacturing sales who thrives on generating new business.

Requirements

Proven experience in industrial, Distributor and manufacturing sales, process consulting, or technical account management.
Strong knowledge of industrial process equipment and ability to develop technical expertise.
Demonstrated success in business development, customer relationship management, and revenue growth.
Proficiency in CRM systems, forecasting, and expense management.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced growth oriented environment.
Strong organizational and time management abilities.
Strong prospecting and business development skills, with the ability to independently build a pipeline from the ground up.

Nice To Haves

Electronics Manufacturing sales experience preferred, but not required.
Existing Book of Business is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Prospect, research, and identify new customer opportunities; plan and execute strategies to integrate leads into the business development plan.
Conduct market research to understand industry trends, competitor activity, and client needs and market conditions.
Maximize penetration of existing accounts by introducing additional products and solutions, including upgrading projects.
Develop and execute a business plan and professional portfolio to track and measure progress toward revenue goals. Prepare accurate sales forecasts and pipeline reports for company leadership.
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer needs, and use those insights to maintain business development strategy.
Collaborate with marketing, operations, and product teams to align business development efforts with broader company goals.
Track personal sales activity and results against individual targets.
Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with multiple contacts at each account to preserve and expand business.
Act as a technical consultant, educating customers on product specifications, applications, and process improvements.
Conduct on-site visits when necessary, to understand the needs of the client.
Provide timely responses to customer inquiries, support requests, and service needs.
Negotiate sales, pricing, and terms to reflect customer value while ensuring profitability.
Follow up regularly with clients to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
Prepare weekly and monthly sales reports, including pipeline forecasts and goal updates.
Maintain and update CRM to track customer activity, sales opportunities, and performance metrics.
Submit weekly expense reports, travel plans, and business updates in a timely manner.
Manage travel expenses responsibly, including vendor travel, hotels, and client-related costs.
Communicate effectively with internal teams to align customer requirements with company resources and SOPs.