Business Development Manager

ABOUT GARNER HOLT EDUCATION THROUGH IMAGINATION:

Garner Holt Education Through Imagination is a leading provider of innovative, hands-on educational experiences that inspire creativity, ignite curiosity, and foster a love for learning. Specializing in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education, we partner with schools, districts, and communities to deliver cutting-edge programs and resources designed to empower students and educators alike.

With a strong emphasis on imagination and innovation, our team leverages decades of expertise to develop unique learning tools and interactive opportunities, from animatronics to immersive classroom experiences. Based in Southern California, we are deeply rooted in our community and committed to creating educational pathways that prepare the next generation for success in an ever-evolving world.

By joining our team, you'll contribute to a mission-driven organization dedicated to making education engaging, accessible, and impactful for all learners.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Business Development Manager is a sales-first, revenue-generating role responsible for driving new business and expanding market presence for Garner Holt Education Through Imagination’s STEAM education solutions, including Maker Spaces, professional development, and manufacturing technology.

This is a highly hands-on role focused on daily sales activity, including prospecting, relationship development, presentations, and closing new business. The ideal candidate is a driven and strategic sales professional who thrives in consultative selling environments and is motivated by performance-based compensation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive new business development by identifying, prospecting, and closing opportunities with K–12 districts, universities, colleges, libraries, museums, and community organizations
• Manage the full sales cycle, including lead generation, needs assessment, proposal development, contract negotiation, and closing
• Maintain and grow a high-performance sales pipeline with defined revenue targets (e.g., $5M )
• Conduct presentations, demonstrations, and strategic planning meetings with district leaders, administrators, and stakeholders
• Serve as the primary client liaison throughout the sales and implementation process to ensure a seamless customer experience
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with clients, identifying opportunities for expansion, renewals, and additional services
• Collaborate with internal teams to align sales efforts with program delivery, fabrication, and operational execution
• Represent the organization at conferences, trade shows, and industry events to generate leads and strengthen brand presence
• Provide guidance to clients on Maker Space technologies and program integration
• Track sales performance metrics, forecasts, and pipeline activity to inform leadership and support strategic decision-making
• Learn new manufacturing technology and software as we expand our product offerings
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date activity within CRM systems
• Support lead generation efforts through targeted outreach campaigns and follow-up strategies
• Collaborate on marketing initiatives that drive qualified leads and brand awareness
• Provide input on messaging, positioning, and market strategy based on client interactions
• Assist with content development such as case studies, proposals, and sales materials
  
  

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• 5 years of progressive experience in sales, business development, or marketing, with a strong emphasis on closing high-value deals
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding annual revenue targets of $3M , preferably in complex or consultative sales environments
• Experience in education, education technology (EdTech), STEAM programs, or experiential learning environments
• Demonstrated success managing the full sales cycle, including prospecting, relationship development, proposal creation, negotiation, and closing
• Experience selling capital projects, programs, or solutions-based offerings (e.g., Maker Spaces, educational environments, equipment, or services)
• Strong background in B2B sales, ideally working with school districts, public sector entities, or institutional clients
• Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Zoho, Salesforce, HubSpot) and marketing tools for pipeline tracking, reporting, and campaign management
• Prior experience training, mentoring, or leading team members, especially in a sales or marketing capacity
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment with evolving priorities and entrepreneurial expectations
  
  

Preferred Experience

• Existing relationships within K–12 school districts, county offices of education, or education networks
• Background in public sector procurement processes (RFPs, bids, contracts)
• Experience supporting or selling multi-site or district-wide implementations
• Familiarity with grant-funded programs or education funding streams
• Experience with manufacturing technology and software
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
  
  

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be at least 18 years of age. (Required)
• Ability to uphold and support the standards of ETI.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with diverse groups of customers and colleagues, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to manage time efficiently. (Prioritize tasks)
• Ability to demonstrate persistence and seek alternatives when obstacles arise; seek alternative solutions; do things before being asked or forced to by events.
• Ability to accept direction and feedback from supervisor and follow through appropriately.
• Ability to demonstrate trustworthiness and responsible behavior.
• Background check and drug screen. (Cleared)
• Travel required, valid driver’s license, and reliable transportation.
• Mandated Reporter Training. (Required)
  
  

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• This is an exempt role.
• Hybrid work options available.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly for client meetings, site visits, and conferences, in and out of state.
  
  

BENEFITS:

• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life and Voluntary Supplemental Options
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Discounts and Perks
  
  

PAY RANGE:

$70,000-$85,000 / year

ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION:

• Performance-based bonuses tied to sales growth.
• Commission: Tiered commission structure.
• Ramp Period: Initial onboarding support with commission draws available.
  
  

The base salary range for this position is listed above. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and business needs. This position is eligible for commission and incentive compensation.

EEO STATEMENT:

Garner Holt Education Through Imagination is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.

WOTC STATEMENT:

This job application includes a voluntary Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) questionnaire, which is part of our compliance with federal tax credit programs. Participation is entirely voluntary and will not impact your application, employment eligibility, or hiring process in any way. Please note that the information provided in the WOTC questionnaire will remain confidential and will not be shared with Garner Holt Education Through Imagination, LLC until after a job offer has been accepted. The data collected is used solely for WOTC screening and compliance purposes.