Business Development Manager in Chicago, Illinois at Atlas Toyota Material Handling, LLC

Atlas Toyota Material Handling is currently hiring a full-time Business Development Manager to identify, target, and develop a defined group of accounts within the Chicago Metropolitan Area. This role will focus on strategic growth, relationship building, and expanding company presence among large-scale users of material handling equipment.

Atlas Toyota Material Handling, part of the Atlas Companies, is an authorized Toyota Forklift Dealer committed to providing quality service, premium equipment, and innovative solutions for companies of all sizes.

Why You'll Love Working at Atlas:

• A Strong, People-First Culture: At Atlas, we believe a strong commitment to excellence, our people, our core values, and professional development opportunities are what make our company great. We also enjoy bringing our teams together through events such as food trucks, BBQ’s, holiday parties, celebration lunches, and sporting events.
• Personal & Family Balance: We value personal/family time and are proud to offer a Monday-Friday schedule.
• Rest and Relaxation: Our associates receive generous paid time off AND 8 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: This includes medical, dental and vision plans, with HSA and FSA options. Company-paid life insurance and short-term and long-term disability plans are also provided, plus a 401(k) plan with company match.
• Career Growth Opportunities: We support professional advancement through tuition reimbursement benefits and internal growth opportunities.

Get to Know the Atlas Team:

• At Atlas, you’re not just starting a job-you’re building a career. Learn more about what we offer on our careers page below.

Duties & Responsibilities

Strategic Sales & Business Development

• Consult with existing and prospective customers to assess and understand their material handling equipment and systems needs.
• Target large-scale users of material handling equipment throughout the Chicago Metropolitan market.
• Research, identify, and develop emerging accounts into high-value partnerships.
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations.
• Collaborate with internal sales teams to understand customer requirements and provide support throughout the sales cycle.
• Generate high-quality sales opportunities through outbound efforts, follow up on initial contacts, secure orders, negotiate pricing, and oversee project execution through delivery.

Phone Call Prospecting

• Conduct proactive outbound phone calls to high-potential prospects within assigned territories. Use outbound phone calls as a primary prospecting tool to reach new accounts.
• Schedule discovery meetings, on-site evaluations, and product demonstrations via phone outreach.
• Follow up with potential prospects after trade shows, marketing events, and digital inquiries.
• Maintain detailed call activity logs and conversion tracking to support long-term account development.

Technical & Operational Responsibilities

• Assist in research and development of vendor partnerships.
• Modify or recommend product solutions based on customer requirements and industry applications.
• Support customers with installed equipment by recommending upgrades or improved material handling solutions.
• Solicit and log client feedback; analyze trends to support new marketing and sales initiatives.
• Identify areas for improvement and communicate insights and solutions to upper management.
• Operate various types of material handling equipment as needed for customer presentations, demonstrations, and evaluations.

Required Skills & Experience

• Must possess a valid driver’s license, the ability to maintain a good driving record, and valid car insurance.
• 5+ years of experience in the material handling industry.
• 10+ years of sales experience with a proven track record of success.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service abilities and the capability to explain technical products to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to apply engineering or technology principles in solution development.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• This position is primarily performed in an office setting and involves prolonged periods of sitting and computer use. Occasional physical activities may be required, including, but is not limited to, standing, bending, crouching, twisting, pulling, pushing, and lifting (typically up to 80 lbs.), as needed.
• Regular travel within an assigned territory is required; the ability to operate a motor vehicle is necessary for this role.