Business Development Manager

Position Description

Title: Business Development Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports to: EVP, Sales

Primary Purpose

The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and expanding high-value customer relationships within the confectionery, food, and specialty markets. This role focuses on cultivating partnerships with premium and strategic clients, driving new business opportunities, and representing Nassau Candy as a trusted advisor and solutions partner. The Business Development Manager serves as a key liaison between clients, operations, product development, and marketing to deliver tailored programs that maximize growth and customer satisfaction.

Essential Functions

• Build and maintain relationships with high-end and strategic clients across key channels (specialty retail, gourmet, gifting, hospitality, and private label).

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities that align with Nassau Candy’s growth strategy and premium product portfolio.

• Develop and execute account-specific growth plans, including sales forecasts, margin goals, and promotional strategies.

• Collaborate with Product Development, Creative, and Operations teams to customize solutions for client programs and product assortments.

• Analyze sales performance, product movement, and profitability to guide business decisions and identify new revenue opportunities.

• Maintain in-depth knowledge of industry trends, category performance, and competitive activity to position Nassau Candy effectively within the marketplace.

• Present new product innovations, seasonal programs, and marketing initiatives to customers and internal stakeholders.

• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with an emphasis on margin management and long-term account value.

• Represent Nassau Candy at industry trade shows, networking events, and customer meetings to enhance brand visibility and business development opportunities.

• • ️ Partner with Customer Service, Logistics, and Finance teams to ensure smooth execution and account satisfaction.

• Prepare periodic sales reports, business reviews, and pipeline updates for senior leadership.

• Lead or mentor Sales Representatives as needed, supporting account strategy and client retention initiatives.

• Perform other related duties or special projects as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, or related field required.

• 7 years of progressive sales or business development experience within the confectionery, CPG, or specialty food industry.

• Proven success managing high-value or national accounts with strong relationship management and consultative sales skills.

• Strategic thinker with demonstrated ability to identify and capture new business opportunities.

• ️ Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.

• Ability to manage complex sales cycles and collaborate cross-functionally across departments.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; CRM system experience (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) preferred.

• Willingness to travel as required to attend client meetings, tradeshows, and company events.

Physical Requirements

• ️ Must be able to speak audibly and intelligibly over the telephone and in-person.

• Must be able to hear with or without accommodation.

• • ️ Must be able to operate a computer keyboard and telephone handset with or without accommodation.

• ✈️ Must be able to travel independently, including overnight travel as necessary.