Business Development Manager\r\n\r\nPOSITION SUMMARY:\r\n\r\nThe Business Development Manager is responsible for locating and executing growth initiatives that align with the company’s strategic vision. This leader will look across the company’s portfolio of specialty food ingredients, with a focus on expanding market share in core business areas and in new areas of growth. This role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, determining if there is a market and company fit/synergy, and commercializing it, and cultivating long-term customer relationships. The Business Development Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, accounting, quality, engineering, and operations to develop and deliver new platforms, products, or partnerships that deliver the company’s growth goals. \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nRESPONSIBILITIES:\r\n\r\n\r\n\tEmbraces and exemplifies the Didion Code of Ethics and Conduct and adheres to all company policies and standards.\r\n\tIdentify and develop new business opportunities in target markets, segments, or categories.\r\n\tBuild and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, distributors, and industry partners.\r\n\tElevate or expand relationships with current customers.\r\n\tLead the development of customized proposals and presentations in collaboration with technical and marketing teams.\r\n\tMonitor market trends, customer feedback, and competitive activity to inform strategy.\r\n\tNegotiate contracts and pricing agreements in alignment with company goals.\r\n\tRepresent the company at industry events, trade shows, and customer meetings.\r\n\tCollaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless onboarding and customer satisfaction.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nKEY COMPETENCIES: \r\n\r\n\r\n\tStrategic Thinking: Ability to identify long-term growth opportunities and align them with company capabilities.\r\n\tIndustry Knowledge: Deep understanding of food ingredients, markets, applications, and customer innovation cycles.\r\n\tRelationship Management: Skilled at building trust and credibility with technical and commercial stakeholders.\r\n\tNegotiation & Persuasion: Demonstrates strong business acumen and the ability to build alignment, guide conversations, and close complex deals.\r\n\tCross-Functional Collaboration: Works effectively with R&D, operations, and marketing to deliver value-added solutions.\r\n\tMarket Insight: Keeps a pulse on industry trends, regulatory shifts, and emerging customer needs.\r\n\tCommunication: Clear, effective communicator with strong presentation and interpersonal skills.\r\n\tEffective Bilingual Communication: Demonstrates the ability to engage clearly and professionally in both English and Spanish across written and verbal interactions.\r\n\tResults Orientation: Demonstrates a strong drive to achieve meaningful outcomes and deliver impact. Committed to serving customers with excellence and purpose.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nREQUIREMENTS:\r\n\r\n\r\n\tBachelor’s degree in Business, International Business, Food Science, or related field; MBA or advanced degree a plus.\r\n\t5–10 years of experience in business development, sales, or account management in the food ingredient or food manufacturing industry.\r\n\tBilingual proficiency in Spanish required: must be able to communicate effectively in both English and Spanish, including reading, writing, and speaking.\r\n\tProven track record of driving revenue growth and building strategic partnerships.\r\n\tStrong understanding of ingredient functionality, formulation, and customer innovation processes.\r\n\tWillingness to travel as needed (up to 30–50%).\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nPHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS\r\n\r\n\r\n\tAbility to work in both office and plant environments\r\n\tTravel is required to company sites, partner facilities, trade shows, market events, association meetings, etc.\r\n\tPeriodic visits to manufacturing and ethanol production facilities, including exposure to noise, temperature variations, and industrial equipment\r\n\tMust be able to stand, walk, and climb for extended periods during site visits\r\n\tMust be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nInterested in joining our Team? Submit your application by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION.\r\n