Business Development Manager - Food & Nutrition Ingredients in Downers Grove, Illinois at CJ America Inc

Company Overview

CJ America is a global lifestyle company and subsidiary of the CJ Group, operating across food, biotechnology, entertainment, and logistics to deliver products and services that enhance everyday life. With roots dating back to 1953, the company has expanded into more than 40 countries, promoting Korean cuisine and culture while driving innovation in multiple industries. With roots dating back to 1953, the company has expanded into more than 40 countries, promoting Korean cuisine and culture while driving innovation in multiple industries.

CJ America Bio’s Taste & Nutrition division is hiring a Business Development Manager to drive sales growth across the food and nutrition ingredients market in North America.

In this role, you will manage key customer accounts, develop new business opportunities, and lead the full sales cycle—from technical consultation to commercial launch. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams and deliver value through CJ’s portfolio of functional nutrition ingredients.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with food & beverage and nutrition industry customers
• Execute strategic account plans to grow revenue and customer satisfaction
• Manage the full sales cycle: prospecting, technical consultation, sampling, pricing, and commercialization
• Prepare and negotiate proposals, contracts, and supply agreements
• Communicate value propositions to R&D, procurement, supply chain, and operations teams
• Identify new business opportunities and expand into untapped market segments
• Partner with internal teams (marketing, supply chain, technical, operations) to deliver solutions
• Represent CJ America Bio at trade shows, industry events, and customer meetings
• Track market trends, customer needs, and competitor activity
• Meet or exceed sales targets and KPIs
• Resolve customer issues while maintaining strong relationships

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Food Science, Nutrition, Chemistry, or related field
• 5+ years of B2B sales experience in food, beverage, or nutrition ingredients
• Experience selling to brands, CMOs, and food & beverage manufacturers
• Strong understanding of sales pipelines and account management
• Ability to travel up to 50% (including overnight travel)

• Strong communication and presentation skills (technical and commercial)
• Ability to influence stakeholders across multiple functions and levels
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Salesforce CRM
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Self-starter with a results-driven mindset
• Established network within CPG, R&D, or procurement teams is a plus
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion

• Competitive base salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life Insurance, AD&D, LTD
• 401(k) with company match
• 14 paid company holidays
• Paid Time Off

• Remote (within assigned North American territory)

• Full-time
• Travel required (up to 50%)

If you are a driven sales professional with experience in food and nutrition ingredients, we encourage you to apply and join CJ America Bio’s growing team.