[Hiring] Business Development Manager @Apera AI Inc

Role Description

Apera AI is looking for a driven, strategic Business Development Manager to help us expand into new accounts and markets. This is a remote role based in Alabama or nearby states, with travel as needed to customer sites and events.

You’ll be on the frontlines driving revenue growth by identifying and closing new business opportunities in the manufacturing automation space. Working with OEMs, integrators, end users, and distribution partners, you’ll uncover use cases where Apera’s 4D Vision can add transformational value. You’ll also leverage our AI-powered Sales Tech Stack to improve prospecting, qualify opportunities, and shorten sales cycles.

Major Objectives

• Acquire and Close New Business:
  • Generate a pipeline of qualified leads and close high-value deals across key verticals within the first 6–12 months.
  • Use AI-enabled lead generation and CRM tools to increase efficiency and conversion rates.
  • Consistently meet or exceed assigned revenue targets while preserving profitability.
• Grow Strategic Accounts:
  • Expand business within existing accounts by identifying additional applications for Apera’s technology.
  • Partner with engineering and application teams to develop tailored solutions.
  • Use predictive analytics and CRM data to guide renewal, upsell, and cross-sell opportunities.
• Drive Market Penetration Through Strategic Sales Execution:
  • Design and implement go-to-market strategies aligned with company growth goals.
  • Build and manage partnerships with OEMs, integrators, and other key stakeholders.
  • Provide quarterly performance reports that include KPIs like pipeline growth, win rates, and customer expansion.

Critical Key Results

• Conduct Market Analysis:
  • Complete a detailed analysis of customer segments, competitors, and territory dynamics within 60 days.
  • Use AI tools to identify emerging trends and develop data-backed insights that inform targeting strategies.
• Collaborate with Technical Teams to Deliver Value:
  • Partner with Application Engineering to shape client-specific solutions.
  • Use collaborative platforms to streamline proposal creation and ensure seamless handoff from sale to execution.
• Lead Project Management for Key Sales Wins:
  • Oversee execution timelines and stakeholder alignment for major deals to ensure successful implementation.
  • Provide ongoing updates and manage client expectations proactively.
• Launch Growth Initiatives:
  • Lead a strategic market expansion initiative within 12 months.
  • Track and report on ROI and impact.
• Maximize Customer Retention and Satisfaction:
  • Monitor customer satisfaction through structured feedback loops.
  • Rapidly resolve challenges using root cause analysis and proactive communication.
  • Cultivate long-term relationships that generate referrals and renewals.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of success in technical sales.
• Experience selling into manufacturing or automation environments.
• Self-directed, curious, and thrive in fast-paced environments.
• Background in engineering or technical sales (degree preferred, but not required).
• Strong and consistent track record of exceeding quota.
• Experience selling robotics, machine vision, or complex automation systems.
• A consultative, trust-based sales approach that resonates with technical buyers.

Benefits

• A chance to make a difference in a friendly, smart, and driven team.
• Personalized development plans and annual learning budgets.
• Regular individual and team upskilling and time dedicated to innovation.
• Equity that empowers all employees from day one.
• Transparent and fair compensation structure.
• Competitive base salary range of $90,000 to $110,000 USD and OTE of $175,000 to $210,000 per year.