Senior Manager, Business Development

Kohler Co. • Kohler, WI

14h • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Manager – Business Development will lead strategic initiatives to identify and develop new business ventures leveraging Kohler’s manufacturing assets, specifically in SMC Plastics, Industrial Castings, and other OEM component opportunities. This role requires deep expertise in process capabilities and market dynamics to create growth opportunities by selling parts and components to external companies. The position will focus on identifying high-potential categories, building strategic partnerships, and driving revenue diversification through innovative business models.
Specific Responsibilities
This role works across the operations, engineering, and legal teams at all levels to support the strategic growth of our business development organization. Success in this role requires the following:

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance or related field; MBA preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in business development, with expertise in SMC plastics and Industrial Castings.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and OEM market dynamics.
• Proven track record of identifying and executing growth opportunities.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and strategic planning skills.
• Ability to travel up to 50%.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Market Development:
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities in SMC Plastics, Industrial Castings, and related OEM component categories.
• Conduct market analysis to understand trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs.
• Develop strategic plans for entry into new markets and categories.
• Business Growth & Partnerships:
• Build relationships with potential OEM customers and strategic partners.
• Negotiate agreements and contracts to secure new business ventures.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align capabilities with external market requirements.
• Process Capability Understanding & Alignment:
• Leverage Kohler’s manufacturing assets to create competitive offerings specifically in the field of SMC plastics & Industrial Castings.
• Ensure feasibility and profitability of proposed ventures based on process capabilities.
• Financial & Performance Management:
• Develop business cases and ROI models for new ventures.
• Track performance metrics and report progress to executive leadership.
• Governance & Execution:
• Establish governance processes for new business development initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with corporate policies and risk management standards.

Benefits

• We believe in supporting you from the moment you join us, which is why Kohler offers day 1 benefits. This means you’ll have access to your applicable benefit programs from your first day on the job, with no waiting period.
• In addition, this position is eligible for a performance bonus/variable incentive compensation.
• We empower each associate to #BecomeMoreAtKohler with a competitive total rewards package to support your health and wellbeing, access to career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation.

What This Job Offers

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