Business Development Executive - Process Engineering

Ghafari Associates; Dearborn (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Ghafari Associates is seeking a Business Development Executive in Dearborn, Michigan, responsible for developing growth strategies for the Operations + Systems Engineering group. The role involves cultivating client relationships, leading proposal development, and overseeing project delivery.

The ideal candidate should possess a Bachelor’s degree, over 15 years of relevant experience, and expertise in contract negotiation and business development. Strong strategic thinking and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in engineering, consulting, automotive, or manufacturing.
• Expertise in business development and contract negotiation.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead growth strategies for the Operations + Systems Engineering group.
• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships.
• Monitor account financial performance, ensuring profitability.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop proposals and innovative solutions.
• Negotiate favorable contracts with clients.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Client relationship management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Financial management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or business

Master’s degree in engineering or business

Job description

General Summary

The Business Development Executive is responsible for developing and leading growth strategies for the Operations + Systems Engineering group, including business development planning, client relationship management, lead generation and pursuit management, and selective executive‑level project oversight.

Essential Job Functions

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy to expand the firm’s services, client base, and grow client accounts, focusing on long‑term partnerships and sustainable growth.

Client Relationship Management

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients (OEMs, tier suppliers, contractors, vendors, etc.), ensuring alignment between their needs and the firm’s capabilities.
• Act as a trusted advisor, providing strategic insights and solutions.
• Open doors for technical teams to join and complement project and market pursuits.

Program Oversight

• Collaborate with technical teams to provide project oversight and guidance, ensuring excellence in project delivery.

Financial Management

• Monitor account financial performance, including forecasting, budgeting, and profitability analysis.
• Develop winning pricing strategies that identify opportunities to optimize resources, increase revenue, and improve cost efficiency.

Proposal Development

• Lead and collaborate with internal teams to develop compelling proposals, presentations, and innovative solutions that address client needs and drive business growth.
• Strategize and navigate procurement avenues that gain strategic advantage and increase hit rates.

Contract Negotiation

• Negotiate contracts and agreements with clients, securing favorable terms and long‑term commitments.

Market Insights

• Research industry trends, market conditions, and emerging opportunities to maintain a competitive edge.
• Qualify project and market opportunities for fit, win probability, risks/rewards, and rationale for pursuing (short and long term).

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in relevant industry organizations and events.

Skills and Attributes

• Strong strategic thinking and problem‑solving abilities, focused on achieving long‑term goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with clients, partners, multidisciplinary project teams, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Familiarity with process engineering disciplines/services and the ways to deliver value.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration, marketing, or a related field required; Master’s degree in engineering or business administration is a plus.
• 15+ years of experience in engineering, consulting, automotive, manufacturing, and related industries.
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams and delivering results in dynamic, high‑pressure environments.
• Expertise in client relationship management, contract negotiation, and business development.
• Ability to travel, as required, in pursuit of business development opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical expertise in industrial engineering, manufacturing technologies, logistics, packaging engineering, and/or other process engineering disciplines.
• Proficiency in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis.
• Current relationships with engineering and/or purchasing personnel (decision makers) at major manufacturers and clientele candidates.

Ghafari Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. As a federal contractor, Ghafari Associates maintains affirmative action programs for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in accordance with applicable laws.