Business Development Specialist

As part of our continued growth strategy, we are seeking a driven and commercially minded Business Development Specialist to expand our client base, strengthen strategic partnerships, and contribute to long-term business growth.

The Business Development Specialist will play a key role in identifying new business opportunities, developing strong client relationships, and increasing revenue across freight forwarding, logistics, and supply chain services.

You will work closely with operations and management to deliver tailored logistics solutions that meet client needs while ensuring profitability and service excellence. This is a permanent full-time position; you will be required to work at least 30 hours per week within ordinary business hours. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Business Development

• Develop and execute a structured business development plan aligned with the company’s growth objectives

• Identify target industries (e.g., import/export traders, e-commerce, manufacturing, FMCG, retail, etc.) and build a qualified prospect pipeline

• Proactively generate leads through cold calling, networking, referrals, digital platforms, and industry events

• Analyse competitor activity, pricing structures, and market positioning to identify competitive advantages

2. Client Acquisition & Revenue Growth

• Secure new clients across international freight forwarding (air, sea, and land), warehousing, and end-to-end supply chain solutions

• Conduct client needs assessments to understand logistics requirements, shipment volumes, trade lanes, and service expectations

• Design tailored logistics solutions including routing, cost optimisation, consolidation strategies, and transit time improvements

• Prepare accurate quotations and pricing proposals in coordination with operations and procurement teams

• Negotiate commercial terms, contracts, and service level agreements (SLAs)

• Achieve and exceed monthly and annual sales revenue targets

3. Key Account Management & Relationship Building

• Develop long-term partnerships with new and existing customers

• Act as the primary point of contact for strategic accounts

• Conduct regular client reviews to ensure service satisfaction and identify upselling or cross-selling opportunities

• Address commercial issues, service concerns, and performance improvements in collaboration with internal teams

• Maintain high client retention rates through proactive engagement and service excellence

4. Market Research & Industry Analysis

• Monitor global trade patterns, shipping routes, freight rates, and regulatory changes impacting logistics operations

• Identify new trade lanes, emerging markets, and growth sectors

• Provide management with market intelligence reports and strategic recommendations

• Analyse internal sales data to identify growth opportunities and service gaps

5. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with operations, customs brokerage, warehousing, and finance teams to ensure seamless service execution

• Ensure all new business onboarding processes are completed accurately and efficiently

• Communicate client expectations clearly to operational teams

• Support resolution of operational challenges related to new or key accounts

6. Reporting & Performance Management

• Maintain accurate records of sales activities, pipeline progress, and client interactions in CRM systems

• Prepare weekly and monthly sales performance reports

• Track KPIs including revenue growth, gross margin contribution, client acquisition rate, and retention rate

• Contribute to forecasting and annual sales budgeting processes

7. Compliance & Risk Awareness

• Ensure all commercial activities comply with New Zealand trade regulations and international logistics standards

• Understand Incoterms, customs documentation requirements, and international trade compliance considerations

• Identify commercial risks within contracts and escalate when necessary

What We’re Looking For

• At least a Bachelor's Degree in marketing, business management, economics or other relevant field OR

• At least 3 years of proven experience in business development, sales, or account management 

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills

• Results-driven with a strong commercial mindset

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities

• Strong analytical and market research capabilities

• Proficiency in CRM systems and Microsoft Office

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package + performance-based incentives

• Career growth opportunities within a growing logistics company

• Supportive and professional working environment

• Opportunity to work with international clients and global supply networks