Gates Corporation is a leader in materials science, founded in 1911, and is seeking a Business Development Manager for their Powersports division. This role focuses on driving strategic growth and expanding the Aftermarket Replacement business across the Americas while engaging with customers and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Responsibilities:
- Lead development and execution of the Americas CVT strategy, with primary focus on AR channel growth and market expansion
- Manage and grow key customer relationships, including distributors, kit suppliers, small OEMs, and race teams
- Identify and drive new business opportunities, channel expansion, and market penetration strategies
- Partner with Product Development and PLM teams to align product strategy with market trends and customer requirements
- Provide voice-of-customer insights to support product roadmap development and continuous improvement initiatives
- Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities
- Support race teams and sponsorship activities to enhance brand visibility and product performance credibility
- Collaborate with regional and global teams to ensure alignment with broader CVT business objectives
- Support commercial execution, including pricing strategy, forecasting, and key account performance tracking
Requirements:
- Proven experience in business development, sales, or product management within the powersports, automotive, or related industries
- Strong understanding of aftermarket channels, distribution networks, and customer dynamics
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute growth strategies in regional markets
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage customers, senior leadership, and cross-functional teams
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, or related field (MBA preferred)
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in OE/OES or AR sales, business development, product management, or account management
- Proven leadership ability to drive sales growth and lead cross-functional teams across the Americas
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute regional growth strategies aligned with business objectives
- Strong understanding of OE and aftermarket distribution channels and go-to-market strategies
- Ability to build and manage strategic customer relationships with a client-focused approach
- Experience with pipeline management, forecasting, and performance tracking
- Understanding of manufacturing and supply chain impacts on regional business
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder influence skills
- Proficiency in PowerPoint, Excel, and CRM tools
- Strategic, data-driven, and results-oriented mindset
- Adaptable, proactive, and highly collaborative team player
- Domestic travel within the Americas up to 40% to support customers and Gates facilities
- Occasional international travel (up to 10%) may be required
- Knowledge of CVT systems, power transmission products, or similar mechanical systems preferred
- Experience within the Americas powersports or mobility market preferred