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Business Development Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE Drive Growth. Build Relationships. Shape the Future of Commercial Furniture Sales. At Innovate, business development is about more than selling -- it's about creating ...

Business Development

Fort Wayne, IN · Remote

$69K - $150K/yr

Remote Insurance Representative | Flexible Schedule | Commission Only This position offers flexible work hours and clear paths for advancement into leadership and management. You will work remotely ...

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Business Development information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$33.4K

$78.3K

$136.3K

How much do business development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for business development in Fort Wayne, IN is $78,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is business development?

Business development refers to the strategies, activities, and processes that organizations use to grow and expand their business. This can include identifying new markets, forming partnerships, generating leads, and creating long-term value for the organization. Professionals in business development often work closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to drive growth and increase revenue. Their role is crucial for helping companies find new opportunities and stay competitive in the market.

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

To thrive as a Business Development professional, you need strong market research skills, sales acumen, networking ability, and typically a degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, data analysis tools, and lead generation platforms is often required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying growth opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and driving revenue for the organization.

What jobs are in business development?

Business development jobs are available in most industries. They include specialists, associates, coordinators, sales and executive positions, advisors, and various seniority levels (President, VP, etc.) based on the size of the company. There are also consultant positions if you prefer to be an independent contractor. Entry to mid-level positions require 1-5 years of experience and include representatives, associates, and specialists who focus on increasing sales. Senior level positions include directors, managers, and presidents, which require in-depth knowledge of your chosen industry and 5-10 years of proven sales success.

What are some common challenges faced by business development professionals when entering new markets?

Business development professionals often encounter challenges such as understanding local customer needs, navigating unfamiliar regulations, and building new relationships in untapped markets. They must adapt strategies to fit cultural differences and market dynamics, which may require additional research and flexible thinking. Collaborating with local teams, leveraging existing networks, and staying updated on market trends can help overcome these obstacles and pave the way for successful market entry.

What is the difference between Business Development vs Sales?

AspectBusiness DevelopmentSales
Primary FocusIdentifying new market opportunities and partnershipsClosing deals and generating revenue
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, market research, relationship buildingClient meetings, negotiations, direct selling
Required SkillsNetworking, strategic thinking, industry knowledgeCommunication, persuasion, product knowledge
Common CertificationsBusiness development certifications, MBA often preferredSales certifications, product-specific training

While both roles aim to grow the company's revenue, Business Development focuses on creating strategic partnerships and exploring new markets, whereas Sales concentrates on closing deals with clients. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or hiring the appropriate professional for your business needs.

Is business development high paying?

Business development roles often offer competitive salaries that can include base pay, commissions, and bonuses, especially in industries like technology, finance, and sales. Earnings typically increase with experience, skills, and performance, making it a potentially lucrative career path for those with strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities.

What do you do as a business development?

A business development professional identifies growth opportunities, builds relationships with potential clients or partners, and develops strategies to expand a company's market presence. They often conduct market research, negotiate deals, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to achieve revenue goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Business Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

The most popular types of Business Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Business Development jobs?

Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Business Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Business Development job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,312 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Business Development Executive

MKS

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


MKS Inc. rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE 


Drive Growth. Build Relationships. Shape the Future of Commercial Furniture Sales. 


At Innovate, business development is about more than selling — it’s about creating partnerships that last and helping clients envision what’s possible. As a Business Development Executive, you’ll be the face of Innovate in the market, cultivating relationships, opening doors, and driving strategic growth across the commercial furniture dealership with sales of products and services. 

This role is ideal for a motivated, consultative professional who thrives on connection, opportunity creation, and long‑term impact — and who’s ready to grow into a senior leadership role as the company expands. 

WHAT WE OFFER 

Innovate is built on strong values and stronger people. We ensure every team member feels supported, challenged, and empowered by living our Core Values: 

  • Transformational 
  • Exceptional 
  • Accountable 
  • Meaningful 
  • Safe 


Benefits & Growth Path 

  • Medical benefits covering 90% of employee premiums and 40% for dependents 
  • Paid vacation + wellness time 
  • Traditional & Roth 401(k) with 100% match up to 4%, immediately vested 
  • Mileage and business expense reimbursement 
  • Unlimited earning potential through performance-based incentives 
  • Defined career progression — with opportunities to expand into senior business development, strategic partnerships, or leadership roles 


At Innovate, your success directly influences the growth of the company — and your career grows alongside it. 

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES 


Business Development & Market Growth 

  • Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities within commercial interiors, furniture, and workplace solutions 
  • Develop and execute strategic outreach plans to grow market presence and brand awareness 
  • Maintain a strong pipeline of qualified opportunities aligned with company growth goals 


Client Relationship Management 

  • Build long-term relationships with end users, architects, designers, contractors, and developer partners 
  • Act as a trusted advisor, understanding client needs and aligning them with Innovate’s services and solutions 
  • Maintain consistent follow-up to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business 


Sales Strategy & Collaboration 

  • Collaborate closely with design, sales, and project teams to develop compelling, value-driven proposals 
  • Participate in client presentations, discovery meetings, and contract negotiations 
  • Track opportunities and activity in CRM systems to support forecasting and accountability 


Market Intelligence & Brand Representation 

  • Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments 
  • Represent Innovate at networking events, industry functions, and community engagements 
  • Strengthen Innovate’s reputation through professionalism, integrity, and consistent follow-through 


General Administration 

  • Maintain accurate documentation of client interactions, proposals, and contracts 
  • Coordinate internally to ensure smooth handoff from sales to design and project execution teams 

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE 

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Marketing or related field) 
  • 5+ years of business development or consultative sales experience (commercial interiors, construction, or related industries preferred) 
  • Proven ability to build and sustain long-term client relationships 
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills 
  • Comfortable working independently while collaborating across teams 
  • CRM experience and strong Microsoft 365 proficiency 


You’re a strong fit if you’re proactive, strategic, relationship‑focused, and motivated by both personal success and team growth. 

JOIN THE FAMILY 

Innovate is a sister company of Michael Kinder & Sons (MKS) — a fourth-generation, family-owned Plan | Design | Build construction firm known for quality, integrity, and lasting partnerships. Together, we provide clients with comprehensive space planning, design, furniture, and installation solutions — all under one roof. 


Learn more about us: 
https://www.innovatecommercialinteriors.com/ 


What MKS Inc. employees say

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About MKS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Software development

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US

Year founded

1987