Business Development Manager

Korn Ferry; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm is seeking a Business Development Manager to execute a national sales strategy focused on the Consumer Packaged Goods, Food, and Beverage industries. The role involves developing partnerships, solving client needs, and driving new business opportunities. Candidates should have over 7 years of B2B sales experience, preferably in packaging or logistics, and possess strong communication and negotiation skills. Travel may be required for up to 50% of the role.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of B2B sales experience in packaging, logistics, or pallet manufacturing.
• Proven track record of selling into CPG, food, and beverage accounts.
• Ability to travel nationally (up to 50%).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a national go-to-market plan targeting key accounts.
• Prospect and secure new clients through consultative selling.
• Manage and expand relationships with key national customers.
• Negotiate high-value contracts and service-level agreements.
• Track pipeline activity and revenue performance using CRM tools.

Skills

B2B sales experience

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Relationship-building

Understanding of sustainability solutions

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field

MBA preferred

Job description

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Base pay range

$100,000.00/yr - $200,000.00/yr

Role Overview

The Business Development Manager is responsible for developing and executing a national sales strategy to grow pallet sales within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Food, and Beverage industries. This role will drive new business development, strengthen strategic partnerships, and position our company as the preferred provider of sustainable and cost-effective pallet solutions across the U.S.

Key Responsibilities

National Sales Strategy:

• Develop and implement a national go-to-market plan targeting key accounts in the CPG, food, and beverage sectors.

New Business Development:

• Prospect, qualify, and secure new clients through consultative selling and solution-based approaches.

Account Management:

• Manage and expand relationships with key national customers to increase share of wallet and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Analyze market trends, competitor offerings, and client supply chain needs to identify growth opportunities.

Partnerships & Negotiations:

• Negotiate high-value contracts, service-level agreements, and long-term supply programs.
• Partner with operations, logistics, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless execution and delivery.

Reporting:

• Track pipeline activity, revenue performance, and forecast accuracy using CRM tools and KPIs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (MBA preferred).
• 7+ years of B2B sales experience, preferably within packaging, logistics, or pallet manufacturing.
• Proven track record of selling into CPG, food, and beverage accounts at a national or enterprise level.
• Strong understanding of pallet pooling, reverse logistics, and sustainability solutions.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to travel nationally (up to 50%).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Revenue growth and margin performance by account/region.
• New client acquisition and retention rates.
• Contract renewal success and share of wallet growth.
• Customer satisfaction and service quality scores.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic, results-driven sales professional who understands the dynamics of large-scale CPG supply chains. They are comfortable engaging with senior procurement, logistics, and sustainability leaders to deliver tailored pallet and packaging solutions that drive efficiency, reliability, and environmental impact reduction.