Trade Business Development Manager
Apply NowTitle: Trade Business Development Manager
Company Description: Luxury Furniture Brand
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Salary: $55,000-$100,000 plus commissions
*Salary is commensurate with experience and is an estimated range provided by JPSearch*
Responsibilities:
- Identify and secure new business opportunities within the trade channels: interior designers, real estate developers, contractors, architects, hospitality groups, private clients, and commercial buyers.
- Maintain and grow existing high-value relationships with trade partners and clients.
- Leverage existing book of business to introduce the brand to new markets and projects.
- Conduct client meetings, presentations, and site visits as needed — travel required (~30–50%).
- Collaborate with showroom teams, project managers, and designers to ensure seamless execution and client satisfaction.
- Represent the brand at industry events, trade shows, conferences, and networking opportunities.
- Monitor market trends and competitor activity to help refine go-to-market strategies.
- Create and deliver reports on sales activity, pipeline health, and business development progress to senior leadership.
- Assist in the development of marketing materials, trade programs, and promotional campaigns targeting industry professionals.
Requirements:
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in business development or sales within the luxury interior design, furnishings, or home/lifestyle industry.
- Established network and book of business within at least 3 of the following sectors: real estate, interior design, architecture, construction, private clients, showrooms, hospitality, and commercial development.
- Exceptional sales acumen with a record of achieving or exceeding revenue targets.
- Strong understanding of the design/build process and working with trade professionals.
- Excellent presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Self-starter with strong organizational and time management abilities.
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically for meetings, events, and client visits.
- Proficiency with CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and Microsoft Office Suite.