Development Director Jobs in Pontiac, IL (NOW HIRING)

JOB PURPOSE
The Business Development Director is responsible for identifying, developing, and converting strategic growth opportunities into profitable revenue. The role develops market growth strategies, builds long-term customer relationships, leads the commercial development of new business opportunities, and provides market intelligence that supports Hitchiner’s strategic growth objectives.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Market Growth & Revenue Expansion (30%)

Develops and executes business development strategies that generate profitable revenue growth and expand the Company's presence within existing and emerging markets. Identifies, qualifies, and advances strategic business opportunities while strengthening customer relationships and positioning the Company for long-term commercial success.

1. Strategic Customer Engagement (30%)

Develops and maintains strategic relationships with customers and key decision-makers to position the Company as a preferred manufacturing partner. Serves as the primary commercial resource for assigned accounts by understanding customer business objectives, identifying future opportunities, influencing sourcing and design decisions, and aligning customer needs with the Company's capabilities.

1. Opportunity Development & Commercial Strategy (25%)

Leads the commercial evaluation and development of new business opportunities by partnering with customers and cross-functional teams to assess technical feasibility, business risk, financial viability, and strategic alignment. Develops commercial strategies and business recommendations that support profitable growth and successful program acquisition.

1. Market Intelligence & Competitive Positioning (15%)

Provides market intelligence and commercial insights that support business planning, strategic decision-making, and long-term growth. Monitors industry trends, competitive activity, customer priorities, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities, anticipate market changes, and strengthen the Company's competitive position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES (IF APPLICABLE)

None

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, marketing, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and progressively responsible experience. A master's degree in business, engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Eight (8) or more years of progressively responsible experience in business development, market development, strategic sales, account management, or a related commercial role within aerospace, defense, automotive, industrial manufacturing, or other engineered manufacturing environments. Experience supporting investment casting or other highly engineered manufacturing environments is preferred.
• Demonstrated success identifying, developing, and securing complex commercial opportunities that drive profitable business growth.
• Strong business, financial, and analytical acumen with the ability to evaluate commercial opportunities and develop business recommendations.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally, including travel between U.S. and Mexico operations and customer locations (approximately 40–60%).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of business development, strategic account management, commercial growth strategies, and market development.
• Thorough knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering concepts, and industrial markets sufficient to develop customer solutions and identify business opportunities.
• Thorough knowledge of financial analysis, pricing strategies, business case development, and commercial risk assessment.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, planning, and business decision-making skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain productive relationships with customers, leadership, and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Strong verbal communication, written communication, presentation, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• Ability to lead complex initiatives and influence business decisions without formal supervisory authority.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently while exercising sound judgment and accountability for results.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily office-based, with regular work in manufacturing/plant-floor environments where appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and exposure to noise, heat, and industrial conditions may occur.
• Frequent and significant domestic and international travel (approximately 40-60% including between U.S. and Mexico operations and to customer sites) to maintain field engagement and customer relationships.
• Extended periods of computer and telephone work, including preparation and delivery of presentations to executive audiences.
• Schedule flexibility required to accommodate customer needs, travel, and cross-time-zone collaboration.