Business Developer

About the role

The Business Developer is responsible for generating new business opportunities through relationship-building, outreach, and proposal development. This role identifies potential customers, develops tailored proposals, supports marketing efforts, and collaborates with internal teams to ensure a smooth transition from sale to service. The Business Developer plays a vital role in growing the company's customer base and strengthening its market position.

• Strategic Prospecting: Proactively identifies, researches, and connects with potential customers through networking, cold calling, and industry engagement.
• Proposal Development: Measures properties, gathers site information, and prepares customized proposals that align with client needs and company capabilities.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborates with operations and finance teams to align new work with scheduling and profitability goals.
• Customer Engagement: Maintains strong relationships with new clients, ensuring a smooth handoff and addressing concerns in a professional, timely manner.
• Sales Process Management: Utilizes CRM software to manage lead activity, track communication, and monitor the financial performance of closed work.

Responsibilities

• Lead Generation and Outreach:
  • Conduct outreach to initiate contact with new prospects and referral partners.
  • Attend industry events and networking opportunities to expand business relationships and promote company services.
  • Research organizations and decision-makers to identify potential customers and business opportunities.
• Proposal Development and Sales Presentation:
  • Measure properties and obtain necessary information for accurate pricing and scope development.
  • Prepare clear, competitive, and customized proposals based on customer needs.
  • Present proposals and project documentation effectively to prospects in a professional manner.
• Sales Conversion and Coordination:
  • Close sales opportunities and ensure all project specifics are communicated with operations and finance teams.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure successful job scheduling, execution, and billing.
  • Monitor the performance of sold jobs to ensure they meet profitability and quality expectations.
• Client Relationship and Support:
  • Serve as a primary contact for new clients, ensuring all concerns are addressed quickly and professionally.
  • Support operational teams during project startup to ensure a seamless transition.
  • Interface with Account Managers or Operations team to align expectations and support long-term success.
• CRM and Reporting:
  • Maintain up-to-date records in CRM system including meetings, contact notes, bid schedules, and follow-ups.
  • Analyze sales activity and performance trends to support business development strategies.
• Company Participation and Safety:
  • Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to company-wide growth initiatives.
  • Promote safety and environmental practices both during the sales process and within internal communications.

This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and other duties may be assigned as dictated by business needs.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree preferred; Horticulture, Business, or related fields a plus.
• Experience: 3-5 years of sales experience required. Landscape industry experience a plus.
• Licensing/Certification: Valid state driver's license is required.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities.
• Knowledge of horticulture including plant material, pests, and disorders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strategic thinking with a results-oriented mindset.

Key Performance Metrics

• Lead generation and prospecting.
• Proposal development and sales performance.
• Revenue and growth contribution.
• CRM management and pipeline accuracy.
• Collaboration and handoff efficiency.
• Client experience and retention support.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office and field work.
• Exposure to outdoor weather conditions including heat and cold.
• Extended work hours during peak seasons.
• Minimal physical activity; may require site visits or walking properties.