The VP Business Development - Foodservice is responsible for the development, and implementation of business development strategies and plans to drive demand for Marlin Connection’s services. Has principal responsibility for achieving operating unit financial growth objectives through use of marketing communications and direct sales activities. Serves as “The Face” of the operating unit to the industry by participating in industry conferences and trade gatherings. Contributes to team management, performance management, strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting initiatives, and systems initiatives, in addition to problem solving and process development for the operating unit. Main focus is to fill pipeline with new opportunities, and support organic growth of existing client relationships. Is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and participates in overall stewardship of the business.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Plan

Develop and define the go-to-market strategy for the operating unit team, including but not limited to marketing communications plan, industry engagement plan, and thought leadership plan.
Create and develop executable programs, materials, and processes that are driven by market and business insights
Measure and evaluate strategic implementation against intended results. Results will be attained through effective execution against business development and business performance goals

Business Development

Evaluate marketplace to determine if organizational capabilities are competitive and relevant with regard to customer and competitor trends in the industry. Recommend solutions/innovations to ensure best in class portfolio of services to bring to market
Customize the go-to-market strategy for specific targets and industry segments
Generate and vet sales leads through personal relationships and outreach, in conjunction with marketing communication and industry engagement tactics
Responsible for delivering measurable results within Marlin Connections that lead to financial growth
Responsible for implementation and effectiveness of marketing communications, industry engagement, and thought leadership programs

Travel and/or Driving Requirements:

Travel and Driving are essential duties and function of this job
Travel up to 60%

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

Deep foodservice experience and relationships
Hands-on experience in foodservice marketing communications and culinary strategy
Direct Supplier, Operator, Distributor or Agency experience (preferably 2+ of the 4 listed)
Has understanding and experience either working at, or partnering with, a foodservice marketing agency
Has a passion for not only developing business that is meaningful for Marlin Connections current suite of services but is also a contributing partner with the ELT as we evolve and build new capabilities and strategic roadmap for long term growth
Is able to direct manage a team of 3+ while also act as a cross-functional leader when new business opportunities warrant the involvement of account management, project management, strategy, creative, culinary or otherwise
Accountable for generating net new business opportunities, building pipeline and converting new business. Will support existing client growth or defense strategies as needed.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience (Business Administration or Marketing preferred)
5+ years of experience in team management (of direct and indirect reports)
7-10 years of experience in management/leadership in a business development role. Foodservice Marketing experience a plus, but not a substitute for formal business development experience
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
Must have expert level knowledge of Foodservice channel
Must be an excellent presenter who is comfortable leading formal and informal discussions in high stakes situations
Must be able to win the confidence of C-Level sales targets by demonstrating the ability to provide strategic counsel
Must be financially literate and able to manage financial tracking/reporting process for this function
Well-organized, detail-oriented, and able to handle a fast-paced work environment
Ability to work effectively with management
Ability to visualize and plan objectives and goals strategically
Ability to gather data, to compile information, and prepare reports
Ability to develop strategic plans to grow the business
Good interpersonal skills
Team building Skills
Excellent customer service orientation
Excellent written communication and verbal communication skills
Ability to direct, lead, coach, and develop people
Ability to complete multiple duties with accuracy shifting from one to another with frequent interruptions and competing deadlines
Strong computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook, and web-browsers

Environmental & Physical Requirements

Office / Non-Sedentary Requirements

Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job. Work may be performed in an office or warehouse environment. Typically requires the ability to spend 66%+ hours each work day doing the following activities: stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, or climb. May have possible exposure to dust, and may require the ability to lift and/or push up to 50 pounds

Additional Information Regarding ASM Job Duties and Job Descriptions

Job duties include additional responsibilities as assigned by one’s supervisor or other manager related to the position/department. This job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. ASM reserves the right at any time with or without notice to alter or change job responsibilities, reassign or transfer job position or assign additional job responsibilities, subject to applicable law. ASM shall provide reasonable accommodations of known disabilities to enable a qualified applicant or employee to apply for employment, perform the essential functions of the job, or enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment as required by the law.

The salary range for this role is $150,000-$180,000.