Proposal Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Business Development Manager / Sales Executive

Guardian Security Services, Inc. - Chicagoland Area

About Guardian Security Services

Founded in 1975, Guardian Security Services is Chicagoland's leading locally owned security organization. For more than 50 years, Guardian has delivered customized, cost-effective security solutions to some of the region's most respected commercial properties, residential communities, luxury high-rise residential locations, financial institutions, educational facilities, and manufacturing operations. Our continued growth is driven by operational excellence, strong client partnerships, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

Position Summary

Guardian Security Services is seeking a motivated and results-driven Business Development Manager / Sales Executive to support continued growth throughout the Chicagoland market. This individual will be responsible for generating new business opportunities, developing client relationships, and expanding Guardian's presence within the security services industry. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with strong communication, networking, and relationship-building skills who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and secure new business opportunities throughout the Chicagoland area
• Build and maintain strong relationships with prospective and existing clients
• Conduct prospecting activities including cold calling, networking, referrals, email outreach, and in-person meetings
• Prepare and present customized security solutions and service proposals
• Coordinate client site visits, needs assessments, and operational walkthroughs
• Collaborate with operations leadership to develop competitive and effective security programs
• Manage the sales process from lead generation through contract execution
• Maintain accurate sales activity, pipeline management, and reporting documentation
• Attend industry events, networking functions, and community meetings to promote company services
• Support client retention initiatives through relationship management and service follow-up
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends, market conditions, and competitive activity

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years of business development, sales, or account management experience required
• Contract Security industry experience is preferred
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proven ability to develop and maintain client relationships
• Self-motivated with strong organizational and time management abilities
• Ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative team environment
• Professional appearance and demeanor required
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM or sales management platforms

Preferred Skills

• B2B sales experience
• Proposal development and contract negotiations
• Strategic planning and market development
• Client retention and account growth
• Networking and relationship management
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Base Salary + Generous Commission
• Performance Incentives and Growth Opportunities

Benefits Include

• Major Medical Insurance
• Dental & Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off & Holidays
• Supplemental Insurance Options

Work Schedule

• Full-Time Position
• Flexible Scheduling Based on Business Needs
• Local Travel Required

Guardian Security Services is seeking driven professionals who are passionate about relationship-building, business growth, and delivering exceptional service solutions. If you are looking to join a respected and growing organization with long-term career potential, we encourage you to apply today.

Good Business Is About Making Smart Investments.
At Guardian Security, We Invest In People!
We believe our employees to be our most important assets. When selecting our Security Officers, we continually strive to make the most appropriate fit between the applicant and our client's specific security needs. The Guardian hiring criteria and process is one of the greatest points of difference over our competition.