Senior Manager, Business Development - XRX

About Us: As a pioneer in science for over 179 years, ZEISS navigates ever-changing environments with cutting-edge technologies and continuous advancements. We believe innovation and technology are key to a sustainable future and global solutions. With a diverse portfolio spanning Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets, and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, ZEISS is a global company with over 46,000 employees, including more than 4,000 in the US and Canada.

About the role

This Senior Manager in Business Development plays a pivotal role in steering the organization toward growth by identifying opportunities, fostering relationships, and ensuring effective execution of business strategies. The position contributes to immediate revenue while laying the groundwork for sustainable long-term success. At ZEISS Extended Reality (XRX), a newly established global Strategic Business Unit in the scale-up phase, you will help deliver cutting-edge XR vision correction and optical systems to consumers worldwide, positioning ZEISS as the preferred partner in the XR market.

This is a hybrid role located in the Bay Area, with travel required to Maryland, New Jersey, Illinois, Washington, or Colorado.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue business opportunities in a new field of business.
• Assess leads for their commercial and strategic potential.
• Develop and implement strategic partnerships with key industry players.
• Collaborate with product management and technology teams at ZEISS to align business strategies with product offerings.
• Create and deliver compelling presentations to board-level stakeholders and potential clients.
• Support negotiation of contracts and deals.
• Develop the organization by identifying opportunities for talent and skill growth in the AR/VR field.
• Build a network with key internal partners to gain efficiency and strong commitment to deliver.
• Contribute to the overall AR/VR commercial strategy.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in business management, engineering, or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years in business development, key account management, global product management, or cross-functional project leadership in a complex and international environment.
• Proven success in managing complex projects and contract negotiations.
• Experience in high-tech, ophthalmic, or innovative industries (e.g., optics, electronics, or advanced manufacturing).

Skills

• Strategic negotiation skills.
• Strategic market and business acumen.
• Commercial account management.
• Relationship and networking skills.
• Strong financial analysis and P&L management.
• Cross-functional project management and stakeholder coordination.
• Good VIS core product knowledge.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Resilience and adaptability in fast-paced, demanding environments.
• Ability to work in an international environment with demanding customers.
• Fluency in English and German (business level).

Working Conditions

• Flexibility for regular international travel and cross-regional collaboration.
• Operate in a challenging and innovative business segment.

Pay

The annual pay range for this position is $149,800 to $187,200 (Bay Area). The final pay offered may be influenced by job location, scope of role, qualifications, education, experience, and talent scarcity. This position is also eligible for a performance bonus.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• 401k matching.
• Employee Assistance Programs.
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal, and sick days.