Business Development Representative

Job Purpose:

The Business Development Representative for Grainwell Puffed Grains is responsible for driving sales of ingredients and finished products to the food and pet food industries primarily with opportunities to research and identify applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and adhesives industries.

Duties & Responsibilities:

This role requires a growing understanding of these industries, evolving customer needs, and the technical aspects of our products. The Business Development Representative will leverage research and data to identify high-potential prospects and key decision makers. Through phone calls, emails, CRM tools, LinkedIn, and trade shows, this individual will engage with these prospects, build relationships, understand their needs, and provide customized ingredient solutions that support their product development, product optimization, and consumer demands.

• Sales Strategy & Execution:
  – Collaborate with the VP of Sales & Marketing to develop and implement sales strategies that will meet and exceed assigned sales targets. Consistently contact and follow up with clients to promote food ingredients and finished product sales.
• New Business Development:
  – Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the U.S. and Canadian markets.  Research and network within the food industry to identify leads and prospects then diligently work on making connections with the key decision makers within them.
• Client Relationship Management:
  – Build and maintain strong relationships with potential clients. Understand client needs and provide recommendations on suitable Grainwell ingredient solutions.
• Product Knowledge:
  – Possess in-depth knowledge of the Grainwell food ingredients being sold, including their applications, benefits, and technical specifications. Stay updated on new industry trends and innovations.
• Sales Presentations & Demos:
  – Conduct presentations and demonstrations to showcase Grainwell capabilities, the product portfolio, and how specific ingredients can be used in clients’ product formulations. Provide samples for testing and evaluation.
• Negotiation & Closing:
  – Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with clients. Close sales deals while ensuring mutual satisfaction and long-term business relationships.
• Customer Support:
  – Provide technical support and product-related assistance to customers, ensuring they have a positive experience with Grainwell ingredients and service.
• Reporting & Documentation:
  – Utilize SharpSpring CRM and Outlook to maintain detailed records of sales activities, client interactions, and progress toward sales targets. Report on market feedback and emerging customer needs.

Qualifications:

• Education: Associate’s degree in Food Science, Business, or a related field (Bachelor preferred)
• Experience: Sales experience in the food industry, particularly in ingredients or B2B sales, is a plus.
• Skills:
  – Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  – Ability to develop and ask good questions then listen and summarize answers
  – Negotiation and closing abilities
  – Customer-focused with the ability to build and maintain relationships
  – Knowledge of food science, ingredient functionality, and food processing technologies
  – Ability to work independently
  – Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  – Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM tools, and other sales-related software

Working Conditions:

• Indoor working conditions.
• May be exposed to loud sounds and distracting noise levels, such as production equipment.
• Occasional travel to meet with clients and attend industry events.

Physical Requirements:

• May be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, stoop, kneel, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work.
• Light to moderate lifting may be required.

Compensation:

• Base salary plus commission/bonus structure, depending on performance.
• Benefits package, including health insurance, 401k plan, and paid time off.