Data Center Business Development Manager

About The Role

The successful candidate will lead growth initiatives in the data center sector for Yaskawa America, Inc. - Drives & Motion Division's variable frequency drive (VFD) solutions. This role will focus on identifying opportunities, developing strategic relationships, and driving sales growth with hyperscale, collocation, and enterprise data center customers, as well as key ecosystem partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Market Development: Identify and evaluate business opportunities within the data center industry, focusing on VFD applications for cooling, power management, and critical infrastructure.
• Sales Growth: Develop and execute go-to-market strategies to drive revenue growth in the data center market.
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with data center operators, engineering firms, OEMs, and contractors to position our VFD solutions as the preferred choice.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with technology partners and industry associations to enhance brand awareness and credibility within the sector.
• Pipeline Management: Develop, track, and manage a robust opportunity pipeline, providing accurate forecasting and reporting to leadership.
• Customer Engagement: Conduct presentations, technical discussions, and value propositions tailored to the needs of data center stakeholders.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product management, engineering, marketing, and support teams to align customer needs with product roadmaps and value messaging.
• Market Intelligence: Monitor trends, competitive activity, and regulatory requirements within the data center industry to inform business strategy.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field (MBA is a big plus).
• 3+ years of business development or sales experience in industrial automation, power electronics, HVAC, or related industries.
• Strong understanding of data center operations, cooling systems, and electrical infrastructure.
• Proven track record of building strategic relationships and delivering revenue growth in a technical solutions environment.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to travel as required (domestic and international).

Preferred Attributes

• Experience with variable frequency drives (VFDs), motors, or power distribution equipment.
• Established network within the data center ecosystem (operators, consultants, OEMs, contractors).
• Knowledge of energy efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization trends impacting data centers.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to work independently and collaboratively.