Alliance/Partner Management, Business Development, Business-to-Business (B2B), Communication Skills, Contract Management, Contract Manufacturing, Contract Negotiation, Cost Analysis, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems, Federal Contracts, Finance, Financial Compliance, Fundraising, Government, Government Contracts, Leadership, Manufacturing, Marketing, Nonprofit, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Pricing, Product Lifecycle, Product Pricing, Proposal Development, Record Keeping, Regulatory Requirements, Revenue Growth, Revenue Planning, Sales, Sales Cycle, Sales Pipeline, Sales Prospecting, Statement of Work (SOW), Strategic Planning, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Operations, Trade Shows, Website Conversion
Business Development Manager
This is a full-time position, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm, in office. Annual salary of $56,000-$84,000.
Position Summary
The Business Development Manager will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, and securing new revenue-generating opportunities that align with the organization's manufacturing, kitting, and service capabilities. This role focuses on developing strategic partnerships and contract opportunities – including federal, commercial, and pass-through sales – that expand the organization's operational footprint while advancing its mission of employment and vocational training for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
This is a revenue-focused role distinct from philanthropic fundraising and development.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities in manufacturing, kitting, assembly, packaging, and related service lines
- Develop and manage a robust pipeline of prospective customers across government (including AbilityOne and State of Maryland -related opportunities), commercial, and nonprofit sectors
- Lead the full business development lifecycle, including prospecting, assessment, proposal development, pricing collaboration, and contract negotiation
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers, contracting officers, and strategic partners
- Establish partnerships that lead to long-term, sustainable opportunities
- Represent the organization at industry events, trade shows, and networking forums
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align opportunities with operational capacity and mission impact
- Partner with internal teams (operations, finance, compliance) to develop competitive and compliant proposals
- Support development of statements of work (SOWs), pricing models, and implementation plans
- Ensure all proposals align with regulatory requirements, including AbilityOne program guidelines where applicable
- Collaborate with operations and production teams to explore light product or service development opportunities tied to client needs
- Help shape solutions that leverage existing capabilities or introduce feasible new lines of business
- Work closely with operations, manufacturing leadership, and supply chain teams to ensure feasibility and successful execution of awarded contracts
- Partner with finance on pricing strategies, cost analysis, and margin considerations
- Coordinate with leadership on strategic growth priorities and market positioning
- Track and report on pipeline activity, conversion rates, and revenue targets
- Maintain accurate records of business development activities in CRM or tracking systems
- Provide regular updates to senior leadership on progress, risks, and opportunities
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5+ years of experience in business development, sales, or contract acquisition in manufacturing, government contracting, or related industries
- Demonstrated success in securing and managing complex contracts or partnerships
- Strong understanding of B2B sales cycles and contract negotiation
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills
Additional Preferred Skills and Experience:
- Experience with federal contracting and/or the AbilityOne Program
- Familiarity with manufacturing, kitting, assembly, or supply chain operations
- Experience working in or with mission-driven or nonprofit organizations
- Knowledge of pricing strategies, cost structures, and operational feasibility considerations
Blind Industries and Services of Maryland is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
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Blind Industries and Services of Maryland