Zero-Waste Business Development Manager

JOB TITLE:      Zero-Waste Business Development Manager

LOCATION:     4150 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108

FLSA STATUS:

This position is exempt for purposes of federal wage-hour law.

Recycle Ann Arbor's (RAA) mission is to develop and operate innovative reuse, recycling, and zero-waste programs that improve the environmental quality of our community. RAA is a nonprofit, social enterprise organization that understands that unique and diverse perspectives are essential to achieve our mission and live our values of —Visionary Leadership * Respect, Caring and Wholeness* Sustaining and Enduring * Strong Teams and Community *Honesty and Integrity.  

Are you passionate about transforming business relationships to prioritize people and the planet while maintaining economic stability? As the Zero-Waste Business Development Manager, you will play a strategic role in expanding mission-driven zero-waste services into new and existing markets. Your responsibilities will include combining analytical and creative thinking to identify opportunities, tracking emerging trends, and aligning strategies with the company’s growth objectives. Additionally, you will foster relationships with community partners, conduct market research, and collaborate across departments to drive sustainable growth, enhance brand visibility, and strengthen partnerships with municipal, private, and community entities through strategic contracting and service delivery. 

BENEFITS:

* Full Time position with a flexible schedule! 

* $80,000  annually!

* We offer a full medical, dental, and vision package!

* 3% 401(k) match!

* Employer paid life insurance, short term and long-term disability!

* Voluntary critical illness, accident, and pet insurance.

* Employee Assistance Program

Position Description Summary:

This is a new position within the organization and will require close integration with all organizational division directors and managers through strong cross-functional collaboration. 

• Reports to the Director of Operations in alignment with direction from the Director of Business Development. 
• Works closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team

This position is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about sustainable and equitable business development, sustainability, strategic partnerships, and community impact. If you are ready to drive meaningful change, we encourage you to apply!

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Business Development & Strategy: 

• Identify and evaluate market opportunities aligned with RAA’s operational strengths and strategic goals. 
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders, municipalities, and community organizations. 
• Attend and provide presentations at networking events, meetings, and conferences to promote services and identify opportunities. 
• Stay informed on industry trends and share insights with the team to shape strategic goals. 
• Develop proposals and respond to bids and RFPs while tracking market trends to anticipate future opportunities. 

Customer & Partnership Management: 

• Build and maintain relationships with customers and partners through regular communication and site visits. 
• Work cross-functionally to align market development strategies with the organization’s zero-waste mission. 
• Manage contracts for municipal, commercial and third-party haulers to ensure excellent service, competitive pricing, and customer retention. 
• Support invoicing accuracy, pricing adjustments, contract reporting, and customer communication to enhance transparency and efficiency. 

Performance Measurement & Reporting: 

• Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of business development initiatives. 
• Provide regular updates to the Director of Operations while collaborating with team members to achieve organizational goals

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, a good listener, outgoing, people person, including public speaking and proposal development.  
• Ability to interact professionally with others and represent the organization’s mission and values externally 
• Ability to independently and pro-actively manage projects and collaborate effectively with teams. 
• Entrepreneurial mindset with adaptability in a fast-paced environment. 
• Very strong financial acumen, including pricing models, forecasting, and data analysis. 
• Excellent customer service skills with a focus on mission alignment. 
• Detail-oriented with the ability to document and communicate key insights. 
• Active listening skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. 
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Demonstrated interest in environment/sustainability a must
• Enjoys working collaboratively within a team and working towards our zero-waste mission  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams). 
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in report/proposal development, budgeting, and presentations. 
• Minimum 5 years project management experience. 
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in business development, customer service, or contract management (preferred). 
• Strong understanding of environmental sustainability, zero-waste practices, and community stakeholders in Ann Arbor (preferred). 
• Ability to differentiate between sales and mission-driven business development

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, walk, squat, or climb stairs for an extended period  

Working Environment:   

• Full-time, in-person position based at Ann Arbor-area facilities. 
• Outward-facing role with considerable time spent attending meetings, speaking at events, and engaging with partners. 
• The majority of work is within Southeast Michigan; infrequent overnight travel possible.