Business Development Manager - Freight Forwarding

As a Business Development Manager at this logistics company, you will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, maintaining relationships with existing clients, and driving regional import/export sales in international air and ocean freight forwarding. You'll achieve financial budgets through strategic market growth and ensuring client satisfaction while adhering to service agreements.

To qualify for the Business Development Manager position, candidates should possess a minimum of 2-3 years of sales experience in the freight forwarding industry. Strong communication skills, organization, time management capabilities, and proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM systems are crucial. Having an existing book of business is advantageous but not mandatory.

The salary range for the Business Development Manager position in the freight forwarding industry is between $75,000 and $125,000, with the potential for additional commission. The role also includes a comprehensive benefits package, making it a competitive opportunity.

A successful Business Development Manager should exhibit strong problem-solving abilities, outstanding negotiation and presentation skills, and excellent people and communication skills. Being self-motivated and results-driven, along with effective time management skills, are crucial for driving business growth and client satisfaction.

While the specifics regarding remote work options aren't detailed, the Business Development Manager position typically requires client visits and maintaining proactive communication within specific geographical areas, indicating that some level of on-site work may be necessary for client engagement and relationship building.

Focus on specific strategies you've used for research and prospecting. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully built and maintained client relationships, including metrics that demonstrate your success.

Emphasize your commitment to client relations, discussing how you follow up post-sale and maintain regular communication to address any issues promptly. Provide examples of successful client interactions that have built trust and satisfaction.

Discuss specific tools or methodologies you use, such as CRM systems, to manage information effectively. Highlight how you track leads, client interactions, and follow-ups to stay organized and efficient.

Share a story that demonstrates your problem-solving and negotiation skills beyond what’s typical. Focus on the steps you took that led you to successfully closing the deal, and discuss what you learned from the experience.

Talk about your collaboration with pricing teams and your understanding of market trends. Discuss the importance of aligning client needs with pricing strategies to enhance market competitiveness.

Bring up current trends such as technology advancements, sustainability, or supply chain disruptions. Discuss how these trends may impact client needs and your approach as a Business Development Manager.

Describe how you actively listen to concerns and respond by highlighting the benefits of your services. Provide examples of how you’ve transformed objections into opportunities for a positive outcome.

Share personal motivations such as target achievements, financial rewards, or the satisfaction of helping clients succeed. Connect your motivations to your performance and commitment to results.

Discuss your communication style and any strategies you use to share important information, address updates, or clarify expectations with team members and clients alike.

Articulate your career goals in the logistics sector, mentioning aspirations like leadership positions, specializing further in the industry, or leading innovative projects. Ensure it aligns with the values and growth of the company.