Business Development Manager jobs in United States
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Gage Marine - Boat Sales · 1 day ago

Business Development Manager

Gage Marine Corporation, which includes Lake Geneva Cruise Line and Lake Life Catering, is seeking a Business Development Manager responsible for developing new business opportunities and increasing sales for private events and catering. This role focuses on lead generation, partnership development, and relationship management, requiring an energetic and self-motivated professional.

BoatingDeliverySalesTechnical Support

Responsibilities

Identify, pursue, and convert new business opportunities for private events, charters, and catering
Research and target prospect segments including corporate clients, wedding planners, DMCs, tourism partners, hotels, schools, community groups, and organizations
Conduct proactive outreach through calls, emails, in-person visits, networking, and community engagement
Sell and promote private boat charters, catering services, seasonal offerings, private events, and specialty experiences
Create customized proposals, pricing packages, and event concepts tailored to client needs
Meet or exceed monthly and annual revenue goals across all business lines
Serve as the primary point of contact for new inquiries from introduction through booking
Manage an active pipeline and follow-up system to maximize conversion rates and repeat business
Build strong, lasting relationships with planners, corporate partners, hospitality and tourism groups, and community organizations
Conduct site tours of boats and event spaces with professionalism and enthusiasm
Represent the company at networking events, trade shows, chamber meetings, bridal shows, and tourism events
Collaborate with Marketing to support sales campaigns, promotional materials, and brand initiatives
Identify new promotional opportunities and strategic partnerships to expand brand presence regionally
Monitor market trends and competitor activity to keep the brands at the forefront of the Lake Geneva hospitality market
Work closely with the Director of Events, General Managers, and Sales Managers to ensure sales commitments align with operational capabilities
Provide accurate details during event handoff, supporting seamless planning and execution
Participate in internal planning meetings and contribute to continuous improvement of sales processes
Maintain detailed CRM records including lead activity, communications, and revenue forecasting
Produce monthly and quarterly reports outlining opportunities, conversion metrics, and performance trends
Assist in annual forecasting and strategic growth planning

Qualification

Outside sales experienceLead generationRelationship managementCRM systemsEvent sales experienceCommunication skillsPresentation skillsOrganizational skillsCreative thinking

Required

2–3+ years of experience in outside sales, business development, event sales, hospitality sales, or tourism
Strong communication and presentation skills with a polished, professional presence
Highly motivated, persuasive, priority-driven, and collaborative, with a strong ability to build and maintain relationships
Proven experience in generating leads and managing relationships
Highly organized with strong follow-through and attention to detail
Comfortable using CRM systems, productivity tools, and standard sales software
Flexibility to attend events, appointments, and networking activities outside standard business hours
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and manage sales territory

Preferred

College degree preferred but not required
Experience in catering sales, wedding sales, corporate event planning, or tourism and hospitality
Familiarity with the Lake Geneva region and destination-event markets
Understanding of boat charter operations, event planning logistics, BEO systems, or diagramming tools
Creative thinker with ability to tailor experiences to client needs

Benefits

Personal Time Off
Medical
Dental
Vision
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Company-provided Life and AD&D for employee, spouse and child(ren)
Voluntary life insurance, STD, LTD, Accident and Critical Illness plans
401(k) plan with company match
Holiday schedule & time off
Employee discounts across Gage Marine’s lifestyle brands

Company

Gage Marine - Boat Sales

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In 1958, the Gage family bought the excursion business and kicked the marina facility into high gear.

Funding

Current Stage
Early Stage
Company data provided by crunchbase