Job Title

JOB TITLE: Business Development Specialist Canada/USAJOB CATEGORY: SALESDepartment/Group: Business Development Job code/Req#: BDLocation: Langley Travel Required: YOVERVIEWDirect Plus Deli Group comprised of 5 companies, is a fast-growing sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distributioncompany, leader in the specialty food segment in the minds of our customers and consumers. Our product offering iscarefully selected and continually maintained, through industry-leading product innovation and the continued commitmentto exceptional products, brands, and service. We believe in providing our customers with products of the highest qualitymade by a selection of trusted brands including Grimms Fine Foods, McSweeneys premium jerky and meat snacks, AudreysPatisserie, Sapor Foods, Butchers Companion, Country Cravers. To learn more please visit our website atwww.directplus.caOBJECTIVEThe Business Development Specialist is responsible for driving sales growth and expanding the market reach of our specialtypet food product in the US and Canadian market. They are responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities,building, and maintaining relationships with customers, and achieving sales targets. With a deep understanding of the NorthAmerican market, the Business Development Specialist will play a crucial role in expanding the companys US and Canadianmarket and driving revenue growth, which requires strong communication and negotiation skills.JOB DESCRIPTIONRole and Responsibilities Have a strong understanding of US trade. Research and target potential US/Canadian clients, distributors, and retail partners in the Specialty Pet Foodspace. Establish and nurture strong relationships with key decision makers in the retail chains, pet stores, e-commerceplatforms, and distributors across the US and Canada. Develop and implement sales strategies to expand the companys US and Canadian presence. Identify and pursue new business opportunities by researching and analyzing US and Canadian market trends,competitor activities, and customer needs. Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and potential customers through regularcommunication, meetings, and follow-up. Conduct sales presentations and product demonstrations to showcase the companys offeringsand value proposition through competitive branding, pricing, and promotional strategy. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Sales and Marketing, R & D, and plant operations toensure operational and organizational readiness for customer satisfaction and successful sales outcomes. Stay up to date on industry trends, market conditions, and regulatory requirements in the US and Canadianmarkets. Prepare sales reports and forecasts, providing insights and recommendations to management forstrategic decision-making. Negotiate and close business deals, ensuring favourable terms and conditions for the company. Travel across Canada and into US markets as required to meet current and potential customers, attend tradeshows, and participate in industry events.Requirements Bachelors degree in business, international relations, or a related field. Additional certifications ortraining in international business development is an asset. Proven track record of success in international business development, with a minimum of 5 yearsexperience. Ideally in the pet food space or heavy experience in the CPG grocery space. Strong knowledge of US and Canadian markets, including cultural nuances, business practice, and regulatoryframeworks. Experience in launching products into new markets or expanding sales channels. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and negotiateeffectively with customers from diverse backgrounds. Analytical mindset, with the ability to conduct market research, analyze data, and identify businessopportunities. Results-oriented mindset, with a demonstrated ability to meet and exceed business development targets. Experience in digital technology to access US and Canadian markets, and other business development tools tomanage leads, track activities, and generate reports. Holds a valid passport and able to travel outside of Canada. Willingness to travel as required (approx. 50%-60%).To learn more, please email Lynne Ciardullo at LynneC@directplus.ca