Business Development Manager – USA

Cefetra Group BV • Chicago, IL

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Royal Ingredients Group is seeking an entrepreneurial, results-driven Business Development Manager to help accelerate its growth throughout the United States. In this role, you will identify new business opportunities, strengthen existing customer relationships, and work closely with global commercial teams to deliver ingredient solutions across the food, pet food, feed, paper, and industrial markets. The company specializes in the trade of starches, sugars, and plant-based proteins and operates in over 100 countries. The culture is informal when possible and professional when required, with an open office environment, short communication lines, and encouragement of initiative and entrepreneurship. The Business Development Manager will be responsible for driving profitable sales growth by developing new business opportunities, expanding existing customer relationships, and increasing Royal's presence within their assigned territory. This involves working directly with customers, suppliers, and colleagues worldwide to develop innovative ingredient solutions and build long-term partnerships based on trust, responsiveness, and exceptional service. The position can be based in the Chicago office or remotely within the United States for candidates located near a major airport.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent business experience.
• Five or more years of successful B2B sales or business development experience, preferably within distribution or food ingredients.
• Demonstrated success developing new business while growing strategic customer relationships.
• Ability to effectively connect process, development, and commercial aspects.
• Strong communication skills, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Willingness to travel for customer visits, trade shows and meetings.
• Self-motivated with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Responsibilities

• Develop new business opportunities through prospecting, networking, referrals, market research, and industry engagement.
• Build, manage and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers and strategic business partners.
• Prepare customer proposals, negotiate pricing, contracts, delivery terms and commercial agreements.
• Coordinate with our logistics department to ensure smooth transaction handling.
• Expanding our customer network in the region.
• Preparing reports and analyses on commercial activities.
• Represent Royal Ingredients at customer meetings, industry conferences, and trade shows.
• Travel throughout your territory to strengthen relationships and develop new business opportunities.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary.
• Performance-based bonus program.
• 401(k) with company contribution.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid vacation and company holidays.
• Flexible work environment.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• The opportunity to work with customers and colleagues around the world.
• A collaborative culture where initiative, accountability, and entrepreneurship are valued.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior