Business Development Specialist

Company Information:

Since 1964, we have been the world’s largest supplier of fudge making equipment, ingredients, and marketing expertise. If you ever go on vacation (and we hope you do!), you’ve probably seen and maybe purchased our fudge. Since our fudge is always made fresh in each retail store (and sold under the retailer’s own name), we are the best kept secret in retail confectionary. With a strong presence in numerous countries and a vast network of retailers, including well-known establishments in the tourism sector, we are committed to delivering outstanding products and services.

Our company culture fosters growth and is centered around our five fundamental values: Honesty and Integrity, Responsibility and Accountability, A Positive Will-Do Attitude, Commitment to Self-Improvement, & Respect for Others. If you possess a strong work ethic, enjoy a vibrant work environment, and have a fondness for indulging in the finest fudge worldwide, this position could be an ideal fit for you.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic, passionate Business Development Specialist to join our new business sales team. Ideal candidates are those with a natural ability for nurturing relationships, excel as team players, embody humility, and possess strong emotional intelligence. You should have exceptional listening skills, capable of comprehensively understanding customer needs and adept at aligning our offerings with these needs. A strong work ethic and a desire to win are essential.

Joining our sales team means representing a brand synonymous with quality and excellence in the candy industry. Calico Cottage is not just a company; it is a community committed to making a positive impact in the candy industry.

Responsibilities:

Market Research and Client Insight Gathering:

• Conduct in-depth pre-call research to gain insights into potential clients' business models, market positioning, and current challenges.
• Analyze market trends and consumer preferences to tailor pitches to the specific needs and interests of each client.
• Initial Client Contact and Relationship Building:
• Initiate contact with potential clients using a variety of communication channels including phone, email, and social media.
• Build rapport with potential clients by understanding their needs and presenting tailored solutions that enhance their retail experience.

Sales Meetings and Presentations:

• Arrange and conduct meetings with potential clients to discuss their needs and how Calico Cottage's products can meet those needs.
• Adhere to established sales procedures that clearly demonstrate the value of our products and services.

Sales Process Management:

• Guide potential clients through the sales process from initial contact to closing, ensuring a smooth transition at each stage.
• Utilize CRM tools to track progress with each client and maintain accurate records of all interactions and transactions.

Client Onboarding and Support:

• Coordinate with internal teams to gather necessary onboarding documents and prepare tailored preliminary quotes for new clients.
• Assist new clients in the adoption of fundamental retail strategies that leverage Calico Cottage’s offerings to boost their sales performance.

Post-Sale Client Engagement:

• Maintain ongoing relationships with new clients to ensure satisfaction and to identify opportunities for further engagement.
• Regularly check in with clients to assess their evolving needs and the effectiveness of implemented solutions.

Professional Development and Industry Engagement:

• Participate in at least one industry trade show annually to stay updated on market trends, network with industry professionals, and promote Calico Cottage’s products.
• Engage in continuous learning and professional development activities to enhance sales and client engagement skills.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with the Customer Care team to assist with the processing of orders and to resolve any client issues promptly.
• Collaborate with marketing and product development teams to provide feedback from clients and suggest product enhancements or new product ideas.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or Communications preferred. High School Diploma or GED required.
• At least three years in sales, client management, or business development, preferably in the retail or consumer goods sector.
• Proven track record of exceeding sales targets, with the ability to provide specific examples or metrics.
• Excellent verbal and written skills, with strong negotiation capabilities.
• Effective time management and ability to juggle multiple tasks and client accounts efficiently.
• Proficiency in CRM software and digital communication tools.
• Strong collaborative skills and alignment with company values such as honesty and integrity.
• Resilience and flexibility to adapt in a dynamic sales environment.
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As an integral member of our team, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits program that includes:

• Competitive Salary
• Paid Time Off Plan and Paid Holidays
• Health (Medical) Insurance
• Company Paid Long Term Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for Health and/or Dependent Care Expenses
• Length of Service Awards
• Employee Assistance Program (employee benefit program that assists employees with personal problems and/or work-related problems that may impact their job performance, health, mental and emotional well-being).
• 401(k) Plan
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life/AD&D Insurance

What makes Calico different from other companies?

• Ice Cream Fridays during fair weather months
• On-Site Gym including free fitness classes and personal training with a professional trainer
• Flu Shot Clinic held annually on-site
• Birthday & Holiday Celebrations held to foster fun and team interaction
• Employee Appreciation Events with great food, fun and team building for all team members and their families
• Charity Drives held throughout the year to give all Calico team members an opportunity to support our local community
• Sporting Event ticket raffles to NY Islanders Hockey and US Tennis Open
• Employee Referral Program rewards employees for referring qualified new hires to Calico 
• And, of course…Plenty of the Best Fudge You’ve Ever Tasted!

Want to make your world a little sweeter? Come join the Calico Cottage, Inc. team!

Job Type: Full-time/Hourly

Work Location: Amityville, NY

Travel: 5-10% (This may increase or decrease based on the needs of the business)

Salary: $26/Hour ($54,000) - $30.00/Hours ($62,400)

Calico Cottage, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.