Vice President Business Development

POSITION:        VICE PRESIDENT – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

FACILITY:        HQ

LOCATION:      PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA

Job Summary

Promise Confections is seeking a dynamic and strategic Vice President of Business Development to drive growth across co-manufacturing, private label, and other strategic initiatives. This role requires a balance of new customer acquisition and ongoing project management with key partners. The ideal candidate thrives in a cross-functional team environment while maintaining a self-starter mentality to execute initiatives effectively. This role is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and reports to the COO.

Essential Functions

• Develop and execute a business development strategy for private label, contract manufacturing, and other strategic growth areas separate from the retail/branded portfolio.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with national grocery retailers, distributors, and key industry partners.
• Drive new customer acquisition efforts while ensuring seamless execution of ongoing projects.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including operations, product development, R&D, and finance, to align business objectives and execution.
• Negotiate and structure agreements that support long-term growth and profitability.
• Stay informed on industry trends and customer needs to drive innovation and expansion.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Preferred: Experience selling private label or contract manufacturing solutions.
• Highly Beneficial: Background in food manufacturing, with confectionery experience being a strong plus.
• Strategic Sales Expertise: Familiarity with national grocery and distribution models.
• Adaptability: Willingness to work within an East Coast-aligned schedule if based elsewhere.
• Balanced Approach: Ability to generate new business while effectively managing key accounts and projects.
• Collaboration & Initiative: A self-starter with the ability to thrive in a team-driven environment.
• Bonus: Experience with product development, purchasing, operations.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with CRM systems and sales analytics tools.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Effective time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with others to achieve a common goal
• Ability to work independently
• High level of attention to detail and follow-through.
• Self-motivated with a positive attitude
• Excellent problem-solving skills

Benefits

Competitive base salary commensurate with experience and bonus plan based on business performance. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Retirement savings plan with company match.

About Promise Confections

At Promise Confections, we take immense pride in being an award-winning manufacturer of everyday chocolate and confectionery products. Our commitment is to continually challenge the norms of traditional confectionery, pushing boundaries to deliver exceptional experiences. Comprising Edward Marc Brands, Seattle Gourmet Foods, Pearson’s Candy Co., and Annabelle Candy Co., we boast a diverse range of capabilities including panning, enrobing, extruding, clusters, barks, brittles, gummies and breath mint/sour candy tableting. With our extensive reach, servicing major retailers and offering private label and contract manufacturing services, we stand as emerging industry disrupter's in confectionery. Check out our brands by visiting: promiseconfections.com