Business Development Specialist - ISO Certification

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. 

We are seeking an experienced Business Development Specialist with a strong background in ISO certification services to drive business growth, develop client relationships, and manage the complete sales cycle from lead generation through to closure and renewal.

The ideal candidate will have prior experience working with an ISO certification body, a good understanding of ISO certification processes, and a proven track record in B2B sales and client management.

Lead Generation & Business Development

• Generate, qualify, and follow up on new business leads.
• Conduct sales calls and meetings with prospective corporate clients.
• Promote ISO certification services, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 27001, and other relevant standards.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with prospective and existing clients.
• Negotiate commercial terms and pricing and drive opportunities through to successful closure.

Proposal & Commercial Management

• Understand client requirements, including organization size, employee strength, industry, and scope, to determine appropriate audit requirements.
• Prepare accurate cost estimates in line with established pricing guidelines.
• Develop and submit professional commercial proposals to prospective clients.
• Follow up on proposals and manage the sales process through to contract confirmation.

Client Management & Renewals

• Maintain regular communication with existing clients and ensure a high level of client satisfaction.
• Manage client relationships in preparation for annual surveillance audits and certification renewals.
• Drive renewals throughout the three-year certification cycle.
• Identify and promote opportunities for additional services, including internal auditor training and integrated management systems.

Sales Pipeline & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, opportunities, and pipeline stages in Salesforce.
• Monitor sales performance and follow up on outstanding opportunities.
• Prepare weekly sales reports covering closed business, lost opportunities, pipeline status, and projected revenue.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Commerce, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 5-6 years of overall professional experience in sales or business development.
• 2-3 years of experience working with an ISO certification body is strongly preferred.
• Good understanding of ISO certification processes and the purpose of key standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 27001.
• Proven experience in B2B sales, lead generation, negotiation, and client relationship management.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Experience using Salesforce or other CRM platforms is an advantage.