Business Development Manager - Manufacturing #0209

Our client is a long-established Swiss manufacturer of electro-mechanical components supplying global markets in the device and machinery sectors. Since launching its US operation in 2009, the subsidiary has delivered consistent, above-average growth and continues to benefit from a steady stream of innovative, uniquely positioned products that fuel further expansion.

We are now searching on their behalf for a CEO & Business Development Manager to head up the US arm of the business. Reporting into the Swiss headquarters, the appointee will take complete ownership of commercial activity across the US, Canada, and Mexico, while running day-to-day operations, managing the financial performance of the entity, and leading a dedicated team of three.

Responsibilities

Stepping into this role, you will be the engine behind the next chapter of the company's North American story. The remit covers the full sweep of business development, strategic stewardship of the US entity, oversight of every operational area, and ultimate accountability for results and the creation of lasting value. Principal areas of focus are as follows:

• Strategic Planning: Articulate and execute the US vision, mission, and longer-term roadmap. Bring the team together around clear priorities and keep the board, shareholders, and stakeholders informed of progress.
• Operations & Cross-Functional Coordination: Keep an eye on performance right across the business, taking in sales, marketing, product, and finance, and partner closely with colleagues at headquarters across R&D, Engineering, Product Management, Finance, and Quality.
• Marketing & Market Intelligence: Maintain a clean, reliable CRM pipeline and accurate forecasts. Prepare account performance reviews and business updates. Keep tabs on competitors, sector trends, and evolving customer needs to inform pricing and product choices.
• Growth & Business Development: Uncover and pursue fresh opportunities in untapped markets and applications. Craft go-to-market plans, roll out new products, and form strategic partnerships with channel allies. Fly the flag at relevant trade fairs and industry gatherings.
• Key Account Management: Develop senior-level connections within major customer organizations. Step in as the escalation point on account matters and marshal the right internal teams to address problems quickly.
• Sales & Commercial Leadership: Take charge of commercial negotiations, contract renewals, and proposal work. Bring home new business and feed customer insight back into the organization to influence product and service decisions.
• Financial Management: Carry full P&L responsibility along with budgeting, forecasting, and monthly reporting, working side by side with the CFO based at the Swiss head office.
• Leadership & Culture: Recruit, coach, and guide the team. Set expectations around culture, values, and performance, and lead the way on inclusion and ethical conduct throughout the company.
• Technical Support & Troubleshooting: Roll up your sleeves and lend a hand on electronic and mechanical product queries and troubleshooting as the situation calls for it.

Requirements

Essential

• A bachelor's or college degree combined with at least 10 years of professional experience
• Solid command of negotiation, presentation, and relationship-building
• Working knowledge of CRM tools, enterprise sales processes, and Microsoft Office
• At least 7 years of sales experience in a Key Account Manager, Business Development Manager, or Area Sales Manager capacity
• A clear record of sourcing and closing deals while consistently meeting revenue and earnings goals
• Comfortable engaging with stakeholders at every organizational level
• Open to building on the structures, processes, and team rhythms already established
• Able to travel 20%+, with 2 to 3 trips per year over to the Swiss head office
• Holder of a valid driver's license
• Either based in Hagerstown, MD or prepared to relocate there
• Professional fluency in English

Preferred

• A degree in Mechatronic Engineering or a similar technical area
• Some experience guiding or coordinating a small team
• A background that blends marketing, business administration, or both commercial and technical disciplines
• A history of consultative selling of technical components to device and machinery manufacturers
• Genuine technical depth on the product side
• A warm, accessible manner that puts employees at ease and supports collaboration as equals

Benefits

• A starting salary of between $140,000 and $150,000
• Eleven paid federal holidays each year
• A performance-driven management bonus connected to company profitability against the agreed budget
• Employer contribution of 75% toward health insurance premiums
• Relocation support on offer where needed
• A company car (electric or hybrid), available for personal use too

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