Business Development Manager - US Market

About IKIO LED Lighting

IKIO LED Lighting is a US-based manufacturer specializing in high-quality LED solutions for industrial, commercial, multi-family residential/hospitality, horticulture, hazardous location, and solar outdoor applications. The company combines an innovative approach with a vertically integrated infrastructure to deliver tailored, energy-efficient lighting and power quality solutions. As an Energy Savings Solution Partner in the EPI collaborative led by the Institute for Lean Systems, IKIO supports customers in achieving long-term performance and cost improvements.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Business Development Manager (BDM) with a strong background in the US market and proven expertise in creating bids, RFP responses, RFQs, proposals, and business development strategies. The ideal candidate will have experience in the construction, lighting, and/or solar industries and a demonstrated ability to identify opportunities, build client relationships, and secure new business through competitive proposals and strategic sales initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales

• Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities within the US market.
• Develop and execute strategic business development plans to achieve revenue and growth targets.
• Build and maintain relationships with contractors, EPC companies, developers, consultants, utilities, government agencies, and commercial clients.
• Generate leads through market research, networking, industry platforms, and strategic partnerships.
• Manage the complete sales cycle from prospecting to contract closure.

Bid Management & Proposal Development

• Monitor and identify relevant RFPs, RFQs, RFIs, tenders, and bid opportunities.
• Lead the end-to-end bid management process, including opportunity assessment, proposal planning, content development, pricing coordination, and final submission.
• Prepare compelling technical and commercial proposals tailored to client requirements.
• Coordinate with engineering, estimating, operations, procurement, and finance teams to develop competitive submissions.
• Ensure all proposals comply with client specifications, contractual requirements, and submission deadlines.

Market & Client Management

• Maintain a repository of proposal content, case studies, presentations, and bid documentation.
• Conduct market analysis to identify industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, trade shows, and industry events.
• Develop account growth strategies for existing clients while expanding into new markets.
• Track customer requirements and provide market intelligence to leadership.

Reporting & Performance Management

• Maintain accurate sales pipelines and opportunity tracking through CRM systems.
• Prepare regular reports on bid status, win rates, revenue forecasts, and business development activities.
• Analyze bid outcomes and implement continuous improvement initiatives to increase success rates.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of business development experience with exposure to the US market.
• Proven experience preparing and managing bids, proposals, RFPs, RFQs, and tender submissions.
• Experience in one or more of the following industries: Construction, Lighting Solutions, Solar Energy / Renewable Energy
• Strong understanding of US procurement processes and commercial contracting practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in CRM platforms, Microsoft Office Suite, and proposal management tools.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage multiple deadlines simultaneously.