Director of Business Development

Location: Tennessee & North Carolina (Remote w/ 50% Travel with overnights expected)

Company Overview:

Kellwell Food Management is a leading provider of food services to the correctional industry, committed to delivering high-quality meals and outstanding service to correctional facilities across the Southeastern US. As an organization, we focus on maintaining the highest standards of food safety, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction with the facilities and residents we serve. We are driven by innovation and a deep understanding of the correctional environment, making us a trusted partner in delivering nutritious and cost-effective meal programs to our clients.

Position Overview:

We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Director of Business Development to join our team and drive growth within the correctional food services sector across Tennessee and North Carolina. This individual will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, expanding relationships with key stakeholders, and strategically increasing our market share in the region. The ideal candidate will have a background in the correctional care environment and food services industry, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record in business development and relationship management.

This role will report directly to the Vice President of Growth and will play a critical role in shaping and executing our business development strategy in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Market Development: Design and execute a strategic business development plan to expand Kellwell’s footprint in Tennessee and North Carolina. Focus on identifying new opportunities and building long-term relationships within correctional facilities, local and state agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Client Acquisition & Relationship Building: Cultivate and manage relationships with decision-makers at correctional institutions, including government procurement officers and contractors. Understand client needs and ensure that Kellwell’s services meet and exceed expectations.
• Contract Negotiation & Management: Lead the process of securing new contracts and renewals for correctional food services. Negotiate terms that align with Kellwell’s standards for quality and cost-efficiency, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements.
• Market Analysis & Insights: Continuously research and analyze market trends, competitor activities, and regulatory changes affecting the correctional food industry. Use these insights to proactively position Kellwell for growth and success.
• Collaboration with Internal Teams: Partner with Kellwell’s operational, culinary, and customer service teams to ensure the delivery of high-quality food services to clients. Provide feedback and insights from the field to help refine offerings.
• Sales Forecasting & Reporting: Develop accurate sales forecasts, track business development metrics, and report regularly to the Vice President of Growth and senior leadership on progress, challenges, and opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field (MBA or equivalent advanced degree is a plus).
• Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in business development or sales, ideally within the correctional, institutional, or food services industries. Experience working with state and local government agencies is highly preferred.
• Skills:
• Proven success in driving business growth, securing contracts, and building long-term client relationships.
• Strong negotiation, sales, and presentation skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the correctional food services industry, including understanding of regulations and procurement processes.
• Proficiency in CRM tools, sales forecasting, and business development tracking software.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities while traveling frequently within Tennessee and North Carolina.

Personal Attributes:

• Self-driven and results-oriented, with a passion for business growth and customer satisfaction.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to assess market trends and make strategic decisions.
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and a customer-focused approach to business development.
• Ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $65,000 per year (Paid Weekly), plus performance-based commissions.
• Company Car.
• Company Expense Card.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Supplemental Pay:

• Commission pay

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (Preferred)

Work Location: On the road

Salary : $65,000