Illinois Tool Works

Business Development Manager-Southeast

Illinois Tool Works$115K — $170K *
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, Hospitality, or equivalent experience.
  • 7+ years in field sales or business development within foodservice or commercial equipment industries.
  • Proven success in field selling with dealer and rep organizations.
  • Experience with foodservice consultants or chains is highly valued.
  • Mastery of Microsoft Office Suite and CRM tools, preferably Dynamics 365.

Responsibilities

  • Execute ITW Enterprise Strategy and Core Values as a business leader.
  • Drive revenue growth for the full Vulcan portfolio in the region.
  • Lead joint sales efforts alongside manufacturers and end users.
  • Develop and close regional opportunities including remodels and multi-unit chains.
  • Deliver product training to reps, dealers, consultants, and end users.
  • Execute regional launch plans for new products and promotional initiatives.
  • Strengthen dealer relationships through strategic planning and recurring visits.

Benefits

  • Flexible remote work arrangements with frequent travel opportunities.
  • Engaging in hands-on product training and cooking demos.
  • Involvement in regional and national trade shows.
  • Support for special projects that promote professional growth.
Full Job Description
Job Description:

This regional BDM role is field-forward, highly cross-functional, and responsible for activating the Vulcan portfolio through hands-on end-user and dealer engagement, regional chain support, market intelligence, and in-territory training events.

The successful candidate will be an energetic relationship builder who thrives in the field and can translate customer needs into clear actions that drive near-term sales results and long-term market share growth.

Scope & Function

The BDM is a highly visible commercial role that reports to the Senior Director of Sales Operations and requires close alignment with Product Managers, Culinary, and Marketing and the ITW Food Equipment Group sales organization including Regional Directors and Territory Sales Managers. The ideal candidate is responsible for advancing Vulcan's full portfolio within assigned states by influencing reps, dealers, consultants, and end-users.

Success requires:
  • Exceptional business acumen and field selling skills.
  • Strong interpersonal capability to build trust across the dealer/rep ecosystem.
  • Ability to activate programs, launches, and pricing strategies in-region.
  • High levels of accountability, autonomy, and strategic execution.


The BDM is the go-to regional expert on competitive activity, dealer behavior, regional chain opportunities, and territory growth levers, and is responsible for coordinating in-market initiatives that accelerate adoption of Vulcan equipment.

Essential Responsibilities

Territory Leadership & Sales Growth
  • Follow and execute ITW Enterprise Strategy, ITW Toolkit, Core Values, and Code of Conduct as a business leader


  • Drive share gain and revenue growth across the full Vulcan portfolio within the assigned region.
  • Lead joint sales efforts with manufacturer representatives, dealers, regional chains, and end users.
  • Partner with Regional Directors to execute territory-specific plans that align with national programs and 80/20 priorities.
  • Identify, develop, and close regional opportunities including remodels, spec conversions, multi-unit regional chains, and emerging operators.


Field Training & Market Activation
  • Deliver hands-on product training for reps, dealer teams, consultants, and end users (in-market and at Vulcan Experience Centers).
  • Execute regional launch plans for new products, programs, or promotional initiatives.
  • Lead regional cooking demos, road shows, buying-group events, and consultant engagement sessions coordinating with the Culinary team.


Dealer & Consultant Engagement
  • Strengthen relationships with our 80 dealer partners through recurring visits, strategic planning, and shared funnel visibility.
  • Support dealer quoting, pipeline development, and competitive positioning.
  • Develop strong connections with foodservice design consultants, delivering spec updates, training, and project support.
  • Track regional pricing pressures, market trends, and operator needs to inform product roadmaps and forecasting.


Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with Product Managers on real-time feedback, new product adoption, and pricing updates.
  • Work with Culinary to support regional demo events, chain menu testing, and equipment performance evaluations.
  • Collaborate with Marketing on local promotions, content needs, collateral, and customer success stories.


Operational & Administrative Excellence
  • Maintain CRM updates (Dynamics 365) with accurate activity logs, opportunities, and forecast insights.

  • Participate in AOP and LRP development by providing territory-specific growth inputs.
  • Represent Vulcan at regional and national trade shows and industry events.
  • Support special projects as assigned.


Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, Hospitality, or equivalent professional experience.

Experience
  • 7+ years in field sales, business development, or product/sales hybrid roles within foodservice, industrial, or commercial equipment industries.
  • Proven track record of field selling success with dealer and rep organizations.
  • Experience working with foodservice consultants or chains strongly valued


Skills & Abilities
  • Competitive and self-driven mindset with a bias toward action.
  • Ability to influence without authority and build trust quickly.
  • Strong field selling presence with outstanding verbal and written communication.
  • High comfort level presenting to groups, conducting demos, and leading training.
  • Strong analytical and business strategy skills.
  • Mastery of Microsoft Office Suite and CRM tools (Dynamics 365 preferred).
  • Time-management excellence-able to manage complex travel and shifting priorities.
  • Understanding of P&L drivers, pricing strategy, and margin management.
  • Ability to lead cross-functional workflows and collaborate effectively.


Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • Travel approximately 2-3 nights per week throughout assigned region.
  • Remote position with regular time required at customer sites, events, and Vulcan facilities.
  • Occasional lifting or movement of demo equipment (with support when appropriate).


Compensation Information:

115,440- 170,000

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ

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