About AFL:
AFL manufactures industryleading fiber optic cable connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today we manufacture thousands of products generate an excess of $2B in revenue and employ approximately 9000 associates worldwide. At AFL we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth let us connect you to your next career opportunity.
This early stage opportunity within the AFL company portfolio is a dynamic and rapidly expanding business at the forefront of hightemperature superconductor (HTS) technology. As a subsidiary of a leading Japanese corporation we are dedicated to providing innovative HTS solutions that are critical to the advancement of the fusion energy market. We offer a collaborative and forwardthinking environment where talented individuals can make a significant impact on the future of energy.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and technically astute Business Development Manager to drive growth within the burgeoning fusion energy sector. This pivotal role will be responsible for identifying developing and securing new business opportunities for our hightemperature superconductor products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical learning agilty exceptional relationshipbuilding skills and the agility to navigate a complex and evolving market. Furthermore the ability to effectively collaborate with our Japanese parent company is crucial for success in this position.
Key Responsibilities:
- Market Analysis & Strategy: Conduct thorough market research to identify key players emerging trends and potential applications for HTS in the fusion energy market. Develop and execute strategic business development plans to achieve sales targets and expand market share.
- Lead Generation & Qualification: Proactively identify qualify and develop emerging consumers of HTS through various channels including industry events networking and direct outreach. Build and maintain a robust pipeline of potential new market opportunities.
- Relationship Management: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the fusion energy industry including researchers engineers executives at fusion energy companies and relevant government agencies.
- Technical Presentations & Proposals: Develop and deliver compelling technical presentations and proposals that clearly articulate the value proposition of Fujikuras HTS solutions. Collaborate with technical teams to ensure accurate and effective communication of product capabilities.
- Contract Negotiation & Closing: Lead the negotiation of contracts and long term supply agreements ensuring favorable terms and alignment with company objectives. Drive opportunities through to successful closure.
- Collaboration with Japanese Parent Company: Serve as a key liaison with our Japanese parent company fostering effective communication and collaboration on customer product specifications demand forecasts and product/technology development roadmap.. This will involve regular communication understanding cultural nuances and potentially some travel.
- CrossFunctional Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams including R&D engineering and sales operations to ensure seamless execution of business development strategies and customer satisfaction.
- Reporting & Forecasting: Provide regular reports on business development activities pipeline status and sales forecasts to management. Track key performance indicators and identify areas for improvement.
- Continuous Learning: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in fusion energy technology and the evolving landscape of the HTS market. Demonstrate a high degree of learning agility to quickly grasp new concepts and adapt strategies accordingly.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in a technical field such as Physics Materials Science Electrical Engineering or equivalent. Demonstrated sales or business development experience with highly technical and long sales cycle products will be considered as an alternative to educational requirements.
- Minimum of 57 years of experience in business development sales or a related role within a technologydriven industry.
- Demonstrated understanding of the fusion energy market and its technological requirements is highly desirable but not required.
- Strong technical aptitude with the ability to understand and communicate complex technical concepts related to superconductivity and its applications.
- Proven track record of successfully identifying developing and closing new business opportunities.
- Excellent communication presentation and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience working with or for Japanese companies with a strong understanding of Japanese business culture and communication styles is a significant advantage.
- Exceptional learning agility and the ability to quickly acquire and apply new knowledge.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in CRM software and other relevant business tools.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
What We Offer:
- Flexible time off policy
- 401K Company match (up to 4% dollar for dollar)
- Professional development training and tuition reimbursement programs
- Excellent medical dental vision and life insurance policy options
- Opportunities for career advance with an industry leading company!
Required Experience:
Manager