Business Development Manager; Automotive

Job Title: Business Development Manager (Automotive Industry - Coatings)

Location: Remote with Travel and based in Detroit, MI

Travel: 80% local travel, within a commutable distance of Detroit, 20% travel outside the area to automotive customers primarily on the East Coast

Status of Hire: full-time, direct hire, salaried

Salary: $100,000–$120,000 depending on experience

Reports to: Director of Automotive Sales

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Business Development Manager to lead the growth of our automotive paint and coatings business. This role is responsible for expanding market share, nurturing key customer relationships, and driving new business opportunities. Working closely with our technical, product, and cross-functional teams, you will deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of automotive industry customers.

This position is home-office based and requires up to 75% domestic and international travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive Revenue Growth:
  Develop and execute targeted sales and marketing strategies based on customer needs, market dynamics, and competitive insights.
• Manage & Expand Key Accounts:
  Build strong, long-term relationships; identify opportunities; and grow share of business within assigned accounts.
• Lead Customer Engagements:
  Conduct workshops, technical presentations, training sessions, and support approval processes to advance sales opportunities.
• Develop New Business:
  Identify, qualify, and convert new opportunities, delivering differentiated, value-based solutions.
• Contract & Commercial Support:
  Negotiate customer agreements and ensure successful execution of commercial terms.
• Achieve Sales Targets:
  Meet or exceed sales goals and KPIs; implement proactive corrective actions when needed.
• Sales Forecasting & Proposals:
  Provide accurate forecasts, pricing proposals, and quotations to inform strategic decisions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  Partner with internal teams to support development projects, address customer claims, and accelerate deal execution.
• Commercial Management:
  Oversee pricing strategies, margin optimization, accounts receivable follow-up, and cost controls.
• Sales Reporting & Documentation:
  Maintain consistent sales planning practices, including visit reports, pipeline updates, and detailed travel documentation.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required;
  Bachelor’s degree preferred plus 5 years’ experience in automotive industrial coatings, paints, chemicals, or pigments, or a closely related industry required
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and maintain a positive, customer-focused attitude
• Strong negotiation skills and sound decision-making abilities
• SAP experience preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Ability to travel extensively (up to 75%), including international travel to locations that may require proof of vaccination
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage tasks to completion with minimal supervision

** Must be authorized to work in the US for any employer, regardless of authorization or visa transfer

** Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test and background check to be eligible for hire

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by governing law.