The parent organization is headquartered in France and is a leader in the design of logistic processes and solutions for warehouse and supply chain automation systems.  With a strong commitment in research and development, their solutions improve efficiencies and workflow for their customers on a worldwide basis. The company acts as a true business partner working with their customers on the selection, design and implementation of their products. They have a solid footprint in the European market and an impressive roster of customers.

The U.S. headquarters is located in Chicago. The parent company is in the process of building and staffing a U.S. start-up division. There are two positions that need to be filled, a Director level and a Manager level of Business Development.

The Director/Manager of Business Development will build and lead the commercial team and distribution network for a large region or portion of the country with an emphasis on sales, marketing and customer support. Reporting to the U.S. President, the Director will recruit and lead a team of 5-7 within a five year timeframe. Their goal is to build a credible presence in the States as a top tier supplier of warehouse logistics that mirrors their excellent reputation overseas. Ideal background includes:

• Experience selling a B2B technical solution in a multi channel network .

• Ability to manage a sustainable and profitable business in a region through the use of independent partners, direct employees and in collaboration with colleagues through-out the world.

• Experience employed with a European company and the ability to work cross culturally.

• Able to establish prospects in target segments and management of a disciplined pipeline process, balancing indirect and direct sales.

• Work cross-functionally with corporate marketing and PR teams and coordinate proposal development and project management activities.

• In conjunction with the US President, set objectives, milestones and forecasts to accurately measure progress towards the business plan.

• Oversee team and channel member training and development.

Candidates should have prior experience in a start-up and a proven track record of sales success as an individual sales performer as well as in sales leadership roles. He/she should be comfortable with direct and indirect selling as well as indirect channels of distribution. The ideal candidate will understand logistics with a strong knowledge of warehousing and order fulfillment solutions in order to successfully train the distribution network and sell their products. Additional qualities include:

• For the Director position, 10 years of B2B technical solution selling; Manager position requires 7 years.

• Excellent sales leadership with the ability to impact mission, passion, motivation and commitment from staff.

• Awareness of cultural differences inherent in a multi-national corporation and diverse customer base.

• Highly motivated to win.  Must possess a team spirit and be able to gain confidence, camaraderie and willingness of others to do so as well.

• Strong sense of urgency and commitment to excellence.

• A self starter with the ability to work autonomously .

• Excellent work ethic and time management skills.

• High energy, enthusiasm and integrity.

• Clear and direct communication, both orally and written.

• Strong analytical abilities and computer literate (MS Project, Excel, Word).

• Bachelors degree with a concentration in business or technology.

• Open to travel.