IAM Business Development Manager

The Business Development Manager - IAM Parts is responsible for identifying, developing, and executing new customer and partnership opportunities in the Independent Aftermarket (IAM). This role focuses on building relationships with automotive buying group organizations, distributors, and other strategic partners, while maintaining awareness of the global automotive parts landscape, key players, and emerging market opportunities.

The Business Development Manager works closely with Sales, Product Management, Category Management, and Marketing teams to drive growth, expand the company's footprint, and ensure strategic alignment across the IAM portfolio.

Key Responsibilities:

Customer and Partnership Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities with distributors, retail groups, buying groups, and other potential IAM partners.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers to influence account selection and partnership strategy.

• Understand customer needs, industry challenges, and market dynamics to tailor solutions and value propositions.

Market and Industry Awareness

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of the global automotive parts landscape, including suppliers, distributors, and competitive players.

• Track trends, emerging technologies, and market opportunities to inform business development strategy.

• Provide insights and recommendations to internal teams on potential markets, accounts, and partnerships.

Strategic Growth Initiatives

• Collaborate with Sales, Category Management, and Product Management to develop go-to-market strategies for new accounts and partnerships.

• Assist in designing business cases, proposals, and presentations for potential customers and partners.

• Support pilot programs, product launches, or partnership initiatives to ensure successful market entry.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Marketing to support targeted outreach, campaigns, and promotional initiatives for new accounts.

• Partner with Product Line Managers and Category Managers to ensure offerings align with potential customer needs.

• Coordinate with Supply Chain and Purchasing to ensure operational feasibility of new customer programs.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting

• Track new business pipeline, potential partnership opportunities, and conversion progress.

• Report on business development activities, market intelligence, and strategic recommendations to leadership.

• Continuously evaluate and refine business development strategies to maximize growth and ROI.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field; MBA preferred.

• Minimum 8 years of experience in business development, sales, or strategic partnerships within the automotive aftermarket or related industry.

• Strong network and knowledge of automotive buying group organizations and distribution channels.

• Awareness of global automotive parts markets, key players, and growth opportunities.

• Proven ability to develop strategic partnerships, influence decision-makers, and close new business.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

• Ability to travel frequently to meet with potential customers and partners.