Vice President Client Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Triz Engineering Solutions is a premium product engineering and development company specializing in end-to-end turn-key commercial vehicle development. We provide end to end engineering services for commercial vehicle engineering and development from feasibility and conceptualization, through production and service support. Our solutions include zero emissions such as battery electric- and fuel cell- as well as hybrid- or conventional powered products. We also offer solutions for other advanced vehicle technologies such as ADAS, vehicle autonomy and telematics. Our services are turnkey solutions that are validation tested and ready for mass production.

VP Business Development

Triz Engineering Solutions is seeking a VP Business Development to lead and accelerate Triz’s commercial growth. This executive will spearhead strategic market initiatives, solidify client partnerships, and grow diversified revenue streams while embodying the values of personal credibility, persuasive leadership, and strategic foresight. This role requires a high-EQ individual with the ability to inspire confidence, tailor communications, and influence diverse stakeholders. The VP will operate with vision and drive in a complex, fast-moving environment bringing positive energy, high standards, and a proven ability to create sustainable impact.

Position Summary

The VP Business Development will:

• Identify, pursue, and secure new client relationships while nurturing and expanding existing partnerships.
• Develop new business opportunities for Triz to generate external revenue streams and drive strong commercial growth.
• Lead the business development strategy to attract and retain clients through showing the Triz value proposition in close coordination with marketing.
• Position Triz as the preferred, end-to-end commercial vehicle engineering partner, enhancing its brand and market presence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Commercial Leadership

• Develop and execute strategies to drive external revenue growth and diversification, meeting annual new business acquisition goals.
• Translate corporate vision into actionable initiatives that position Triz for sustained competitive advantage and profitable growth.
• Maintain clear strategic focus, continually assessing where long-term value can be created and aligning execution accordingly.
• Build a qualified pipeline of high-value opportunities, drawing on both new relationships and expansion within existing accounts.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Lead and expand client relationships across OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, ensuring customer retention and consistent business growth.
• Secure incremental revenue through long-term contracts, anchoring future revenue in predictable and strategic partnerships.
• Demonstrate customer orientation by deeply understanding stakeholder goals and tailoring engagements to solve real-world challenges.
• Craft and deliver tailored, persuasive proposals and presentations, adapting communication style to maximize impact and win decisions.

Brand and Market Positioning

• Strengthen Triz’s reputation as a preferred engineering solutions partner through value and relationship-based selling, leveraging the value proposition, and delivery excellence.
• Drive brand recognition via thought leadership, industry representation, and invitation to high-value commercial opportunities.
• Champion Triz’s identity as a future-ready innovation partner, consistently aligning brand narrative with proven technical leadership.

Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Recruit and develop high-caliber business development talent, scaling a team that embodies accountability, creativity, and trust.
• Coach team members in strategic selling, credibility-building, and audience-aware communication.
• Instil a performance-driven, collaborative culture that thrives on integrity, high standards, and continuous development.

Key Annual Outcomes

•     Achievement of new external revenue targets.
•     Incremental revenue secured through long-term contracts.
•     Diversification of revenue streams through new customer acquisition.

Note: Excludes revenue classified under “Other,” such as pass-through costs to customers (e.g., travel, hardware, expenses).

Position Requirements

Education & Experience

• Technical or business undergraduate degree; MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in business development, strategy, or commercial leadership roles within technology or engineering sectors.
• Proven track record of selling complex engineering-services engagements similar to Triz Engineering’s portfolio—to the customers we target.
• Established network and deal history within our core markets, earning repeat business for high-value engineering solutions.”
• Proficient in CRM tools and Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with advanced vehicle technologies, including electrification, fuel cells, and autonomous systems.
• Background working with OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and technology partners.

Key Skills

• Strong sales and negotiation skills.
• Skilled in pitching, presenting, and closing deals.
• Effective communicator and active listener.
• Experienced in developing and executing market research.