Director of Business Development - Softlines

SGS•Fairfield, NJ

About The Position

The Director of Business Development leads strategic growth initiatives and shapes long-term business development strategies aligned with corporate objectives. The role manages business development activities, partners with senior leadership on go-to-market strategy, mentors junior staff, and advances processes and outreach. It provides market intelligence, oversees complex proposals and strategic client engagements, and represents SGS at industry events. The position contributes to organizational growth and succession planning. The Director works to achieve sales targets within an assigned territory, develops sales plans and new prospects, maintains accurate forecasts and CRM activity reporting, and coordinates account handovers. The role collaborates with sales support, marketing, leadership, clients, account managers, vendors, and industry partners to generate leads, develop proposals, negotiate agreements, and strengthen client relationships. It also leads special projects and cross-functional initiatives. The position requires extensive experience in a multinational organization and international business exposure in imported consumer products. It involves complex commercial negotiations, strategic decision-making, market analysis, and leadership through guidance and mentorship. Extended hours and shift work may be required from time to time.

Requirements

Post-secondary degree in a relevant field.
10 or more years of experience in a multinational organization.
International business exposure in imported consumer products in a sales, program management, or key account management function.
Persuasive and diplomatic communication style and the ability to sell a concept.
Strong written and spoken English; other languages are an advantage.
Ability to read, understand, and follow work instructions safely, accurately, and on time.
Proficiency with computer software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including grammar and composition.
Ability to work well independently and with others.
Proven time-management skills and strong attention to detail.
Ability to work well under pressure.
Extended hours and shift work may be required from time to time.

Nice To Haves

Additional language skills.

Responsibilities

Meet or exceed quarterly and annual targets within the assigned territory.
Prepare individual sales plans, identify and research prospects, and plan and conduct prospect outreach.
Coordinate the transfer of landed account ownership to assigned Account Managers.
Provide regular, accurate forecasts and pipeline updates.
Report on market developments and analyze trends and competitor activities.
Work with Marketing, Sales Development, and Sales Operations to support lead generation.
Ensure client quotes, proposals, and RFP responses are accurate and completed on time.
Submit timely reports of sales activities using CRM systems.
Represent SGS at high-profile industry events to strengthen brand positioning.
Partner with leadership and marketing to organize and execute industry events and vendor summits.
Mentor and coach junior business development staff.
Develop and execute long-term business development strategies aligned with corporate goals.
Collaborate with senior leadership to shape go-to-market strategies.
Oversee complex proposals and strategic client engagements, accurately planning scope, schedules, and budgets.
Provide advanced market intelligence, including competitor threat analysis and trend forecasting.
Lead special projects and cross-functional initiatives that support organizational growth.
Negotiate contracts with procurement teams and senior management while protecting SGS's interests, maximizing profit, and winning business.
Analyze sales performance and market trends to develop strategies and make commercial decisions aligned with corporate objectives.
Identify strategic opportunities, close major deals, resolve complex client issues, and lead pricing strategies and high-level negotiations.
Suggest strategies for developing new services and partnerships, team development, and improving program and process efficiency.
Suggest appropriate testing to meet regulatory requirements and claim verifications.
Recommend strategic industry events and drive innovative sales and marketing programs.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.