Business Development Manager Jobs in Springfield, IL

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven New Business Development Manager to join our fast-paced and innovative team. As the ideal candidate, you possess a proven track record of success in sales and business development, coupled with a deep passion for the travel sector. Your exceptional communication skills, strategic thinking, and unwavering motivation will drive our business growth and contribute to showcasing our company as a top player in the market. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth for our organization.

To apply, please submit your resume, a brief summary of your most significant sales achievements, and what excited you about the opportunity to join the Classic team.

Responsibilities include:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Market Research:
• Conduct thorough market research to identify potential business opportunities and trends in the travel industry.
• Analyze competitor activities and market dynamics to develop a comprehensive understanding of the competitive landscape.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging market opportunities. Use this knowledge to inform strategic decisions and capitalize on market gaps.
• Surveys & Campaigns: Integrated within the BDM role are two critical outreach efforts, surveys and campaigns.
• Surveys: outbound calling to advisors booking CV and those not booking CV. The opportunity to learn more about today's advisor is key to our future success.
• Campaigns: outbound calling to territory agencies/advisors where we are offering premium economics to gain market share is key to driving sales growth
• Lead Generation:
• Generate new business leads through various channels, including networking events, industry conferences, and online platforms.
• Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of potential clients and partners.
• Client Relationship Management:
• Build and nurture strong relationships with key clients, understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions.
• Collaborate with existing clients to identify upselling and cross-selling opportunities.
• Proposal Development:
• Prepare compelling business proposals and presentations that highlight our value proposition and address the specific needs of potential clients.
• Work closely with internal teams to customize offerings based on client requirements.
• Negotiation and Contract Closure:
• Lead negotiations with potential clients, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements.

• Close deals and manage the contract process, collaborating with legal and finance teams as needed.
• Strategic Partnerships:
• Identify and pursue strategic partnerships with other organizations in the travel industry to expand our reach and enhance our service offerings.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful partnership implementation.
• Sales Forecasting and Reporting:
• Develop and maintain accurate sales forecasts, providing regular updates to the leadership team.
• Prepare and present comprehensive reports on business development activities, achievements, and challenges.
• Product Knowledge:
• Maintain an in-depth understanding of our products and services, highlighting unique selling points and value propositions to potential clients.
• Sales Performance Metrics:
• Set and exceed ambitious sales targets, consistently delivering top-tier performance that contributes to the company's growth and success.
• Event Coordination:
• Support event-planning efforts, including detailed itineraries and budgets for tradeshows, familiarization trips, and other calendar events. Travel required 30% of the time, which would include overnight and weekends.
• Computer Skills:
• Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Salesforce, Tableau, PowerPoint, PLEX, Executer, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Professional Development:
• Stay updated on industry best practices, attend relevant conferences, and participate in training to continuously enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Social Media:
• Be influential and creative in social media to network with existing and new customers and partners.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality or Communications preferred
• Proven track record of at least five (2) years as a successful business development manager. Travel experience is a plus.
• Strong network of contacts and relationships within the travel industry.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrates a proven ability to think creatively and find effective solutions in challenging situations.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex concepts clearly and persuasively.
• Self-motivated, energetic, and eager to take initiative in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and sales analytics tools.
• Willingness to travel as required to meet clients, attend industry events, and explore new market opportunities.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, generate meaningful insights, and make data-driven decisions.
• Strong negotiation and closing skills, with a keen ability to overcome objections and obstacles.
• Demonstrated ability to build and nurture relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with popular travel destinations, cultural nuances, and travel regulations.