Overview
Join Locus as we leverage our advantage as the only U.S. manufacturer approved to produce and sell commercial biosurfactants on a large scale! Recently granted TSCA registration for our Amphi® CL and CH sophorolipid biosurfactants, we are primed for rapid expansion and are seeking a highly motivated Head of Business Development to lead our strategy, drive market penetration, and accelerate growth across key industrial sectors.
Read more about our recent milestone: Press Release
Position Summary
We’re looking for a results-driven Business Development leader to join our team and expand our innovative, sustainable, award-winning ingredients (sophorolipid biosurfactants) into new markets, with applications in cleaning, degreasing, biofilm remediation, metalworking fluids, lubricants, and agricultural adjuvants. In this global role, reporting to the Senior VP of Locus Ingredients, you’ll develop and execute strategic BD plans to build market presence and rapidly drive short-term revenue growth.
Responsibilities
- Market Strategy & Execution: Conduct in-depth market research and segment customers to create and execute strategic BD plans. Identify and close high-value opportunities to build a strong pipeline and drive revenue.
- End-to-End Sales Leadership: Manage the full sales cycle, from prospecting and pitch to contract negotiation and closing.
- Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with technical, marketing, finance, and operations teams to align strategies for commercial success.
- Market Insights & Trends: Regularly assess and communicate market information, industry trends, and competitive intelligence to inform and adapt strategies.
- Client Relationship Management: Foster and build strong relationships with clients, attend industry conferences, and represent Locus at trade shows and events.
- Data & Reporting: Maintain up-to-date CRM documentation, create reports, and track progress on BD plans, forecasts, and budgets.
Qualifications
Required:
- 5+ years of experience in B2B business development, technical sales, or strategic marketing within specialty chemicals, with a focus on one or more relevant markets (I&I cleaning, CASE, metalworking fluids, agricultural adjuvants, lubricants).
- Experience working in a specialty chemical manufacturing or distribution environment.
- Proven success in building trust with clients, closing deals, and achieving growth targets.
Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, or related field.
- 10+ years of experience in specialty chemicals, surfactant product lines, or technical sales.
- Strategic marketing expertise, including market analysis, customer segmentation, and value proposition development.
- Consultative sales training (e.g., Wilson Learning).
- Experience in global markets
Qualities for Success
- High energy, self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset.
- Ability to navigate ambiguity and adapt to a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication skills and a talent for building relationships across functions and with customers.
- Strong organization skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
Travel
- Willingness to travel up to 50%, including international trips, to build client relationships and attend industry events.
What Success Looks Like
- A robust pipeline of opportunities and sustainable revenue growth.
- Strategic BD plans with quarterly updates on progress.
- New partnerships for additional biosurfactants, products, or IP licensing opportunities.
Locus Fermentation Solutions is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
