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Business Development Associate Jobs in Findlay, OH

Superior Trim is seeking an experienced and results-driven Business Development Manager to lead strategic growth initiatives across new and existing markets. This individual will be responsible for ...

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Business Development Associate information

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$27.2K

$52.4K

$86.4K

How much do business development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for business development associate in Findlay, OH is $52,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,800.00 and $57,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a business development associate do?

A Business Development Associate is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, building relationships with potential clients, and supporting the growth strategies of an organization. They conduct market research, help develop proposals, and assist in negotiating deals. Their role often involves collaborating with sales and marketing teams to generate leads and expand the company's customer base. Business Development Associates play a key part in driving revenue and ensuring long-term business success.

How does a business development associate typically collaborate with sales and marketing teams?

Business Development Associates often work closely with both sales and marketing teams to identify and pursue new business opportunities. They may coordinate with marketing to develop targeted campaigns or gather insights on market trends, and partner with sales to qualify leads and support the sales pipeline. Regular meetings and cross-departmental projects are common, ensuring alignment of goals and strategies. This collaborative approach helps maximize outreach efforts and ensures potential clients receive consistent communication throughout their journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a business development associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Business Development Associate, you need strong analytical abilities, sales acumen, and a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with CRM platforms like Salesforce, market research tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically required. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and negotiation skills help you stand out in this client-facing role. These skills are vital for identifying opportunities, building partnerships, and driving company growth.

What is the difference between Business Development Associate vs Sales Representative?

AspectBusiness Development AssociateSales Representative
Primary FocusIdentifying new business opportunities and building strategic partnershipsClosing sales and meeting sales targets
Required SkillsMarket research, networking, communicationPersuasion, product knowledge, negotiation
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, client outreach, collaborationCustomer interaction, sales pitches, negotiations
Common Industry UsageBusiness development teams, startups, B2B companiesRetail, B2C companies, direct sales roles

While both roles involve client interaction and revenue generation, a Business Development Associate focuses on creating new opportunities and strategic growth, whereas a Sales Representative primarily aims to close deals and meet sales quotas. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is a business development associate a good career?

A business development associate role involves identifying growth opportunities, building client relationships, and supporting sales strategies, making it a valuable entry point in sales and marketing careers. It often requires strong communication, negotiation skills, and industry knowledge, with potential for advancement into management or specialized roles.

What is a typical business development associate career path?

A business development associate typically progresses to roles such as business development manager, account executive, or sales manager, gaining experience in client relations, sales strategies, and market analysis. Advancement often requires strong communication skills, industry knowledge, and performance metrics, with some professionals pursuing certifications like the Certified Business Development Expert (CBDE) to enhance prospects.
More about Business Development Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Business Development jobs in Findlay, OH?

The most popular types of Business Development jobs in Findlay, OH are:

What job categories do people searching Business Development Associate jobs in Findlay, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Business Development Associate jobs in Findlay, OH are:

What cities near Findlay, OH are hiring for Business Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Findlay, OH with the most Business Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Business Development Associate job openings in Findlay, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,374 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Business Development Manager

Superior Trim

Findlay, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Business Development Manager

Superior Trim – Findlay, Ohio

Position Summary

Superior Trim is seeking an experienced and results-driven Business Development Manager to lead strategic growth initiatives across new and existing markets. This individual will be responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, establishing strategic partnerships, evaluating emerging markets and technologies, and driving the commercialization of products and manufacturing capabilities.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong manufacturing background, exceptional relationship-building skills, and a proven ability to develop growth strategies that align with operational capabilities. This role will work closely with executive leadership, sales, operations, engineering, purchasing, and plant management to create and execute long-term business growth initiatives.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Growth & Market Development
  • Identify, evaluate, and prioritize new market opportunities that align with Superior Trim's manufacturing capabilities.
  • Develop growth strategies for target industries including transportation, seating, furniture, recreational vehicles, marine, aerospace, retail products, construction, agriculture, and consumer goods.
  • Analyze market trends, competitive activity, customer needs, and industry developments.
  • Develop and maintain a multi-year commercialization roadmap with measurable revenue objectives.
  • Challenge conventional thinking and drive innovative growth initiatives throughout the organization.
New Business Acquisition
  • Identify and pursue new customers, programs, strategic accounts, and revenue opportunities.
  • Lead prospecting efforts from initial contact through business award and launch.
  • Coordinate proposal development, quotations, business cases, and commercial negotiations.
  • Represent Superior Trim at industry events, trade shows, supplier meetings, and customer visits.
  • Build and maintain a robust pipeline of qualified opportunities.
Strategic Partnerships
  • Develop and strengthen relationships with customers, suppliers, manufacturers' representatives, industry associations, and strategic partners.
  • Leverage supplier partnerships to identify collaborative growth opportunities and new market access.
  • Work closely with key suppliers and technology partners to evaluate innovative materials, manufacturing processes, and products.
  • Create partnerships that expand Superior Trim's capabilities and competitive advantages.
Product Commercialization & Innovation
  • Identify opportunities to develop proprietary products and new revenue streams.
  • Evaluate retail and direct-to-consumer opportunities that leverage existing manufacturing assets.
  • Support product validation, market testing, and commercialization efforts.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams to move opportunities from concept through production.
Manufacturing Growth Initiatives
  • Assess emerging technologies and manufacturing processes for strategic fit and growth potential.
  • Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Tooling, and Purchasing teams to evaluate capital investment opportunities.
  • Support business case development for new equipment, tooling, manufacturing capabilities, and capacity expansion projects.
  • Ensure growth opportunities align with operational capabilities and profitability objectives.
Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Work closely with executive leadership to establish business development priorities.
  • Serve as a strategic advisor regarding market trends, competitive positioning, and growth opportunities.
  • Facilitate collaboration among Sales, Engineering, Operations, Quality, Purchasing, Finance, and Manufacturing teams.
  • Build organizational alignment around growth initiatives and strategic priorities.
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, or related field.
  • Minimum 7 years of business development, sales, account management, product commercialization, or strategic growth experience within manufacturing.
  • Demonstrated success identifying and developing new business opportunities.
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chains, and industrial operations.
  • Experience developing and executing strategic growth plans.
  • Strong financial, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
  • Ability to travel approximately 25–40%.
Preferred
  • Experience in automotive, transportation, seating, furniture, aerospace, marine, recreational vehicle, or industrial manufacturing markets.
  • Knowledge of foam molding, thermoforming, cut-and-sew, upholstery, plastics processing, tooling, or related manufacturing processes.
  • Experience working with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and strategic manufacturing partners.
  • MBA or advanced business education.
Key Competencies
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Business Acumen
  • Relationship Building
  • Market Analysis
  • Influence & Collaboration
  • Negotiation
  • Communication
  • Product Commercialization
  • Financial Analysis
  • Project Leadership
  • Innovation & Creativity
Success Measures

Successful candidates will:

  • Develop qualified opportunities in targeted growth markets.
  • Establish new strategic customer and supplier relationships.
  • Increase annual revenue through new business development initiatives.
  • Successfully commercialize new products and manufacturing capabilities.
  • Develop a sustainable pipeline of growth opportunities aligned with Superior Trim's strategic objectives.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive base salary
  • Performance-based incentive program
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays