What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Development Manager position at DNO Produce?
Business Development Manager
đź“Ť Columbus, Ohio
🔹 Full-Time | Exempt
🔹 Salary: Competitive commission
🔹Reports To Director of Education Sales
About DNO Produce
DNO Produce is a regional fresh-cut processor based in Columbus, OH, specializing in high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables. We proudly serve schools, restaurants, healthcare facilities, coliseums, mass feeders, retailers, and more with innovative produce solutions. From portion-controlled snack packs to bulk foodservice packs, our mission is to deliver freshness, consistency, and exceptional service to our partners across the Midwest and beyond. Learn more at www.dnoinc.com.
POSITION SUMMARY
New Business Development Manager
Join a team committed to sharing the power of fresh fruits and vegetables with the next generation.
DNO Produce is seeking a New Business Development Manager to lead growth within the K-12 segment. This role is built for a true hunter. Someone who thrives on opening doors, building relationships from the ground up, and turning opportunity into long-term partnerships.
You’ll play a critical role in expanding DNO’s footprint with school districts, foodservice management companies, and distribution partners across our growing network of states. This position sits at the intersection of produce, education, and public health. Helping bring fresh, accessible fruits and vegetables into schools at scale.
We are looking for someone who understands the unique dynamics of the K-12 ecosystem and/or has experience in produce sales. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, relationship-driven, and energized by the challenge of building something new.
This is not an account maintenance role, this is a growth engine role.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Drive new business development within the K-12 segment and broader food service segment, including school districts, co-ops, and state programs
- Identify, target, and secure new customer relationships across assigned regions
- Expand market reach by identifying and developing opportunities within foodservice and food manufacturing channels, aligning DNO’s capabilities with customer production and menu needs
- Build and manage a robust pipeline of opportunities, from prospecting through close
- Collaborate with internal teams (marketing, operations, procurement, food safety, and leadership) to execute successful onboarding of new accounts
- Develop strategic relationships with key stakeholders including foodservice directors, state agencies, and industry partners
- Represent DNO at industry events, conferences, and customer meetings
- Stay ahead of market trends, funding programs (FFVP, NSLP, etc.), and competitive dynamics within K-12
- Consistently meet or exceed sales targets tied to new revenue generation
- Some travel will be necessary to trade shows, customer visits, etc.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1 years of proven work experience in a customer-facing sales role — volunteer or professional
- Bachelor’s degree in Sales, Communications, Business Administration, or related field.
- Ability to manage multiple projects with competing timelines and priorities.
- Excellent listening, negotiation, and presentation abilities. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail, follow-through, and organization.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 2 years of proven account management or relevant experience
- Ability to collect, track, and interpret data. Understanding of consumer behaviors and industry trends.
- Ability to communicate, present and influence key stakeholders at all levels of an organization, including executive and C-level.
- Fresh produce sales experience.
- Compensation & Benefits
Benefits
- Health, dental, vision & life insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off & holidays
Compensation: Competitive base salary plus commission structure tied to both new business development and existing account growth.
Join us to lead with purpose and drive meaningful impact.
đź“© Apply now or message us to learn more!
DNO Produce is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Full Job Description available upon request.