Manager Business Dev - Ames

The Manager of Business Development is responsible for supporting the Director of Business Development in executing the company’s commercial strategy, maintaining customer relationships, identifying growth opportunities, and managing daily business development activities within the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) organization. This role serves as a key liaison between customers, internal departments, and executive leadership to drive revenue growth, maximize hangar utilization, and ensure exceptional customer service.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales Support

Support the Director of Business Development in achieving annual sales and revenue objectives.

Develop and maintain relationships with existing airline, leasing, cargo, and charter customers.

Identify and pursue new business opportunities for heavy maintenance, line maintenance, modifications, and other MRO services.

Prepare customer proposals, pricing packages, presentations, and commercial agreements.

Assist in negotiating contract terms and supporting long-term service agreements.

Track and manage opportunities through the company’s CRM system.

Customer Relationship Management

Serve as a primary point of contact for customers on day-to-day business matters.

Coordinate customer visits, facility tours, and business review meetings.

Ensure customer requirements and expectations are effectively communicated to operational teams.

Support customer retention initiatives through proactive engagement and relationship management.

Cross-Functional Coordination

Work closely with Operations, Planning, Finance, Supply Chain, and Program Management teams to align customer needs with organizational capabilities.

Assist in developing maintenance schedules that maximize facility capacity and profitability.

Support the resolution of customer concerns and commercial issues in a timely manner.

Coordinate internal resources required to support bids, proposals, and contract execution.

Market Analysis & Strategic Support

Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and market opportunities within the aviation MRO sector.

Conduct market research to identify potential customers and emerging business opportunities.

Support strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the company’s service offerings and market presence.

Prepare reports and presentations for leadership regarding sales performance, pipeline activity, and market intelligence.

Administrative Responsibilities

Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, contracts, and business opportunities.

Generate weekly and monthly business development reports and forecasts.

Support budget planning and revenue forecasting activities.

Ensure compliance with company policies, commercial procedures, and customer confidentiality requirements.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Aviation Management, Marketing, or a related field preferred.

Equivalent aviation industry experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development, sales, account management, or commercial operations within the aviation industry.

Prior MRO experience strongly preferred.

Experience working with airlines, leasing companies, cargo operators, or military customers is highly desirable.

Understanding of heavy maintenance operations, C-Checks, modifications, and aircraft maintenance planning is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong understanding of aviation MRO business models and commercial practices.

Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.

Ability to build and maintain long-term customer relationships.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and CRM systems.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Ability to travel as required to support customer meetings, industry events, and business development activities.