Reporting to the Regional SDS leadership and the Global Affairs Director, the Business Developer serves as a key commercial representative for SDS, identifying new business opportunities, developing strategic client relationships, and supporting the successful delivery of commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Develop and expand the SDS client portfolio through active prospecting and business development activities
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients
• Prepare commercial proposals, presentations, and responses to requests for proposals (RFPs) and tenders
• Negotiate commercial terms and support contract discussions in alignment with management guidelines
• Manage and grow assigned client accounts while identifying opportunities for additional services and engagements
• Represent SDS at trade shows, industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities
• Conduct market research, competitive intelligence, and trend analysis to identify new business opportunities
• Collaborate with designers, project managers, marketing teams, and leadership to deliver compelling client solutions
• Track and report business development activities, pipeline health, and commercial performance metrics
• Travel as required to support client meetings, prospecting efforts, and industry events

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Design Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in business development, sales, marketing, purchasing, account management, or a related commercial function
• Experience developing new business opportunities and managing client relationships
• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen
• Understanding of contract terms and commercial agreements
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation communication skills
• Ability to travel as required
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience within design, innovation, consulting, automotive, industrial, or creative services environments
• Knowledge of industrial markets, consumer trends, and design-driven business solutions
• Experience managing key accounts and long-term client partnerships
• Demonstrated success achieving revenue growth and business development targets
• German and/or Italian language proficiency
• Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration experience
• Ability to influence stakeholders and build relationships across diverse international environments
• Proven ability to work independently with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset
• Demonstrated adaptability, curiosity, and a passion for innovation and design