What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Development Manager position at Applus+ Laboratories?
Business Development Manager
- Location: Hybrid based out of Madison Heights, MI (Preferred, but remote considered based on experience and performance)
- Pay: Base Salary Sales Commission Bonus Plan
About Us:
Applus RA is a market leader in the transportation industry, specializing in testing services and certifications for electrical, electronic, and mechanical components, sub-systems, and full systems, including materials testing and failure analysis. Our laboratory is based in Madison Heights, MI, and is part of Applus , a multinational group with over 23,000 employees worldwide.
Job Overview:
We are seeking an ambitious and results-driven Business Development Manager to lead the growth and expansion of our materials testing and failure analysis services across North America (U.S., Mexico, and Canada)—with a primary focus on the Transportation and Automotive sectors. This role will target OEMs, Tier 1 & Tier 2 suppliers, and their associated supply chains.
You will be responsible for creating and implementing an effective sales strategy and will work closely with internal technical teams and report to the management team.
Your Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a sales and growth strategy to exceed revenue goals in the transportation materials testing sector.
- Collaborate across departments (technical, operational, sales) to deliver comprehensive testing solutions.
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities using internal sales tools and CRM systems.
- Generate leads and manage customer expansion with the support of the laboratory team.
- Monitor industry trends and competitors to identify opportunities for innovation and market positioning.
- Manage key accounts, ensuring high customer satisfaction and driving repeat business.
- Track and manage sales pipelines, focusing on high-value opportunities and maintaining CRM accuracy.
- Represent Applus RA at trade shows, conferences, and industry events to build visibility and strategic relationships.
Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years of successful technical sales experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
- Proven experience as a Business Development Manager, Sales Executive, or similar role in the Transportation/Automotive industries.
- Strong technical knowledge in laboratory testing, particularly materials testing and failure analysis. Additional experience in vibration, environmental, and structural testing is a plus.
- Demonstrated track record of expanding and retaining customer base.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with CRM systems and BI tools is a plus.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and strategic relationship-building skills.
- Strong time management, planning, and goal-setting capabilities.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary with performance-based bonus opportunities.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
- Collaborative and supportive environment with a team of dedicated professionals.
- Career development and growth within a respected, global organization.