Job DescriptionJob Description
About the Role
We're looking for a driven, relationship-oriented Business Development Manager to grow our presence in the systems and contract furniture industry. This role owns the full new business lifecycle - from prospecting and pipeline building to closing and handoff - with a focus on commercial real estate, corporate, hospitality, and design-driven projects.
The ideal candidate has spent time in the design or dealer world, understands how a project moves from concept to installation, and knows how to build trust with architects, designers, brokers, and end-user clients along the way. If you grew up rearranging your childhood bedroom just to see how the space could feel different, and that same instinct now shows up in how you approach client spaces and deals - we want to talk to you.
What You'll Do
- Identify, prospect, and develop new business opportunities across target verticals (corporate, hospitality, retail, healthcare, education, etc.)
- Build and manage a healthy pipeline of new business, tracking activity and progress through a defined sales process
- Cultivate relationships with architects, interior designers, general contractors, commercial real estate brokers, and property managers to generate project leads
- Read and interpret CAD drawings and floor plans to understand project scope, specify appropriate systems/furniture solutions, and speak knowledgeably with design teams
- Understand commercial real estate timelines (lease signings, TI budgets, occupancy dates) and align outreach and proposals accordingly
- Prepare and present proposals, quotes, and product solutions tailored to client needs and budgets
- Collaborate closely with design, project management, and installation teams to ensure smooth handoff and delivery after the sale
- Maintain accurate records of accounts, opportunities, and activity in CRM
- Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and networking functions (NeoCon, CoreNet, IIDA, local CRE/design events, etc.)
- Stay current on furniture systems, finishes, and industry trends to act as a trusted advisor to clients
What We're Looking For
- Proven track record in new business development/sales, ideally within contract furniture, design, hospitality, or a related built-environment industry
- Background from a design firm, furniture dealer, hospitality company, or retail environment strongly preferred
- Working knowledge of CAD or the ability to read and interpret space plans and drawings
- Solid understanding of the commercial real estate industry and how projects come together
- Highly organized and process-driven - comfortable managing a structured pipeline and following a defined sales methodology
- Strong customer service instincts; you know how to build trust and manage relationships beyond just closing the deal
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Self-starter who thrives on prospecting and building something from the ground up
- A genuine eye for design and space - bonus points if you've always had it
Preferred Background
- 3+ years in business development, sales, or account management within contract furniture, design, hospitality, or commercial real estate
- Experience working with or alongside architecture/design firms, furniture dealers, or commercial brokers
- Familiarity with major systems furniture manufacturers and product lines
Company DescriptionThe Hitch Group is a national staffing and consulting company that connects great opportunities to even greater talent.
Company DescriptionThe Hitch Group is a national staffing and consulting company that connects great opportunities to even greater talent.
