Director, New Business Development

ROCKWOOL Group • Chicago, IL

4d • $165,000 - $180,000 • Onsite

About The Position

ROCKWOOL is seeking a Director, New Business Development , based in our Chicago Office with up to 40% travel required . Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing & Business Development, you’ll work closely with our North American team to advance our growth agenda and develop solutions that positively impact both our planet and society. At the ROCKWOOL Group, our empowerment, collaboration, and innovation have made us the world’s most sustainable building materials manufacturer. Our portfolio is perfectly suited to tackle many of today’s biggest sustainability challenges: energy consumption, noise pollution - and protection from fire, as one of the most non-combustible building materials. Are you an inspiring leader passionate about driving sustainable growth and global impact? As Director, New Business Development , you will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and executing growth opportunities in market segments outside of ROCKWOOL’s current core business but aligned with our strategic priorities. A primary focus will be to analyze and execute new commercial opportunities for stone wool insulation and adjacent segments in the North American market, with an eye on developing innovative product solutions. These solutions may be created in‑house, in collaboration with strategic partners, or through contract manufacturers. This role is about creating real commercial value and blends hands‑on execution in the market with strategic vision in guiding new ventures from concept to commercialization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field with MBA preferred.
• 10+ years’ experience in business development, product management, or R&D ideally in building materials, construction products, or related industries
• Proven track record of turning market opportunities into commercially viable, revenue producing businesses
• Exceptional collaboration and communication skills, with experience working across regional and global teams
• Willingness to travel across North America and internationally as required up to 40% of the time

Nice To Haves

• MBA preferred

Responsibilities

• Research, identify, and validate high‑potential market segments outside of ROCKWOOL’s core business
• Analyze and execute new commercial opportunities for stone wool insulation in North America, including adjacent segments
• Develop business cases and go‑to‑market plans that emphasize value creation and commercial scalability
• Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor movements to inform opportunity pipeline
• Lead feasibility studies, pilot programs, and commercialization projects with clear ROI objectives
• Work hands‑on with customers, partners, and internal teams to develop solutions that fulfill unmet market needs
• Manage the full lifecycle from concept through launch, ensuring tangible, measurable results in market share, sales, and profitability
• Partner with existing Product Management, Technical, Operations, and Marketing teams in North America
• Leverage ROCKWOOL’s global expertise, best practices, and innovation resources
• Build strong external networks with customers, industry partners, and associations to accelerate adoption
• Establish clear KPIs for market initiatives and track performance against commercial goals
• Report regularly on pipeline progress, business value generated, and lessons learned.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay & Benefits from Day 1: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401K Match: Up to 6%
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, 12 paid holidays, and parental leave.
• Educational Assistance & Career Growth: Invest in your future.
• Wellness Perks : Fitness reimbursement and EAP access.
• Safety First: Company-provided PPE and programs to keep you protected.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees