Associate Defense Business Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

WHO WE ARE

Relation Insurance is a leading, innovative company with a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients. As a key player in the insurance market, we pride ourselves on our dynamic culture, collaborative environment, and continuous drive for success. With a rich history and a bright future ahead, we are looking for exceptional individuals to join our team and contribute to our ongoing growth and success.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

The Business Development Associate supports Relation's Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) team by identifying and engaging prospective acquisition partners through outbound prospecting, market research, lead qualification, and relationship-building activities. This individual maintains a robust pipeline of acquisition opportunities, supports business development initiatives, and works closely with M&A team members to advance opportunities through the acquisition process.

A GLIMPSE INTO YOUR DAY

• Generates acquisition opportunities through outbound prospecting efforts, including cold calling, warm calling, email outreach, networking, and referral development.

• Builds and maintains a strong pipeline of prospective acquisition targets to support the organization's long-term growth objectives.

• Researches and qualifies prospective agencies and business owners to identify strategic acquisition opportunities.

• Conducts market research and gathers intelligence on agency ownership, market dynamics, industry trends, and competitive activity.

• Maintains accurate and up-to-date prospect information within CRM and pipeline management systems, ensuring data integrity and completeness.

• Partners with M&A team members to advance prospects through the acquisition pipeline and facilitate introductions with potential acquisition partners.

• Schedules and supports introductory meetings between prospective acquisition partners and M&A team members.

• Assists in the execution of marketing campaigns, business development initiatives, and industry outreach efforts.

• Prepares reports, pipeline updates, presentations, and prospect summaries as requested.

• Supports additional administrative and operational activities related to business development and acquisition sourcing efforts.

• Develops and maintains positive relationships with agency owners, industry contacts, referral sources, and prospective acquisition partners.

• Collaborates effectively with team members across the M&A function and support a positive, results-oriented team environment.

• Utilizes CRM platforms, data analytics tools, technology solutions, and proprietary AI-enabled resources to identify prospects, conduct research, maintain accurate pipeline data, support outreach activities, and improve overall business development efficiency.

• Performs other projects, duties, and tasks, as assigned.

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE IN THIS ROLE

• High School diploma or equivalent required. Four-year degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Finance, or a related field strongly preferred.

• Minimum 2 years of experience in business development, lead generation, sales, recruiting, relationship management, or a related field.

• Insurance industry, financial services, consulting, M&A, or brokerage experience strongly preferred.

• Knowledge of market research methodologies, industry analysis, and business development best practices preferred.

• Experience working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, or growth-oriented environment.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively engage business owners, prospects, and industry contacts.

• Demonstrated ability to build rapport and establish credibility with prospective clients and business partners.

• Self-motivated, resourceful, and goal-oriented with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, prospects, and deadlines simultaneously.

• Proficiency using CRM systems, Microsoft Office applications, and sales or business development productivity tools, with the ability to learn new software and systems.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and reporting.

• Ability to analyze information, conduct research, and identify business development opportunities.

• Professional demeanor and ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

• Ability to travel as business needs require.

WHY CHOOSE RELATION?

• Competitive pay.

• A safe and healthy work environment provided by our robust benefit program including family health and wellness programs, 401K, employee assistance programs, paid time off, paid holidays and more.

• Career advancement and development opportunities.

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Note: The above is not all encompassing of the full position description.

Relation Insurance Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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