Business Development Executive

The Company:
Kinter is a family business obsessed with making retail display hardware easier for our customers. We’ve been manufacturing and distributing retail display hardware for over 40 years. Our approach to business is simple — treat each other and our customers like family.

Summary:
The Business Development Executive is responsible for developing new business opportunities and managing client relationships throughout the full sales cycle. This role involves prospecting, cold outreach, quote generation, and ongoing account management, while collaborating cross-functionally to ensure successful project execution and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator with excellent problem-solving skills, able to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and motivated to build lasting relationships and drive business growth. The standard schedule is typically Monday–Friday; however, hours may need to flex during travel weeks depending on flight schedules, conference and trade show timing, and customer meeting availability. The pay range for this role is fixed at $130,000 to $160,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Candidates with strong, relevant experience may be offered salaries toward the higher end of the range, while those earlier in their careers can expect offers aligned with the entry level of the range. 

Essential Functions:

• Prospect and develop new business opportunities within the retail hardware and distribution market through cold calling, email outreach, networking, and industry events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, including retailers, distributors, and other key accounts.
• Manage and actively grow a pipeline of prospects through consistent follow-up and engagement
• Prepare and deliver accurate quotes, estimates, and product proposals using internal systems.
• Coordinate with order entry and sales support teams to ensure a seamless transition from quote to order fulfillment.
• Partner with internal departments (operations, production, logistics, and customer service) to address project needs and ensure timely delivery.
• Maintain ongoing communication with customers throughout the order lifecycle to ensure satisfaction, resolve issues, and secure approvals.
• Gather and report market intelligence, including customer needs, competitor activity, and industry trends.
• Manage and expand an existing book of business while identifying and pursuing new sales opportunities.
• Represent the company at trade shows, conventions, and industry events to promote products and build brand presence.
• Develop and maintain in-depth knowledge of the company's product catalog and capabilities
• Utilize CRM and internal systems to track sales activities, maintain accurate records, and monitor performance.
• Demonstrate strong decision-making, adaptability, and the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.
• Assist with additional projects, tasks, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintains a professional, collaborative, and solution-oriented demeanor during all interactions with peers, management, and clients to foster a productive team environment.
• Receive constructive feedback professionally and openly, utilizing it as a tool for continuous personal development and performance improvement.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong verbal and written communication and customer service skills.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure, multitask, and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and customized electronic/CRM platforms.
• Ability to travel for business needs; valid Driver's License and REAL ID or Passport required for air travel.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree required, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• Prior experience in sales, business development, or customer service required.
• 5+ years of experience in new business acquisition or a related sales role, ideally within the retail hardware, distribution, or related industry.
• Demonstrated track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets and growing a book of business.
• Experience with CRM systems and quoting/proposal tools preferred.
• Familiarity with the retail hardware, distribution, or manufacturing sectors is a plus

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 15 pounds
• Ability to make repetitive movements, including moving of the wrists and/or fingers, bending, or squatting

Work Environment:

• This position will work indoors in a temperature-controlled environment, with periods of time spent on site visits at customer locations. Site conditions may vary.

Travel:

• Travel averages 25% to 75% of the time for client meetings, trade shows, and conferences, with flexibility needed to accommodate a variable schedule.

The Location:
Kinter is located on the outskirts of Waukegan, just minutes from Gurnee and Wadsworth. Office and warehouses are located off IL Route 41, which makes the commute easy from surrounding towns.

Why Join Our Team?

• Be part of a dedicated, family-owned business with a proven track record of success and a deep commitment to its employees.
• Enjoy generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Benefit from comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance—100% covered for the employee by Kinter, with no payroll deductions.
• Secure your future with our fully employer-funded pension plan (contributions start after 1 year, fully vested after 5 years, with no deductions from your paycheck).
• Unlock long-term growth potential and opportunities to advance within the company.

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