Business Development Manager

Get to Know Us

John S. Connor is a leader in global logistics and customs brokerage. As a vital player in the supply chain, we ensure our clients’ shipments meet all regulatory requirements while facilitating smooth import and export operations. We offer collaborative and dynamic career opportunities where every employee plays a key role in delivering outstanding service and value to our clients.

Company Culture

At John S. Connor, our success is powered by people and technology. We believe that every customer deserves peace of mind, provided by a comprehensive logistics strategy and a robust technology platform. Our culture and customer-focused mission assure that your contribution will be recognized and rewarding. We encourage employees to be engaged, inspired, and diverse. Success is celebrated and integrity is at the core of our values.

Position Summary

The Business Development Manager (BDM) is responsible for generating and maintaining revenue by promoting the full suite of John S. Connor (JSC) services—including ocean and air freight forwarding, NVOCC services (inbound and outbound), customs brokerage, and related logistics solutions. This remote role is focused on business development in the Norfolk, VA region and will work in close collaboration with the local Branch Manager and the national Director of Sales and Marketing.

The BDM will maintain strong relationships with existing clients, identify new business opportunities, and drive revenue growth through strategic sales initiatives and client solutions. This position requires close coordination with internal NVOCC, air, ocean, and operational personnel to ensure successful execution and client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, qualify, and pursue prospective accounts in the Norfolk market and surrounding regions.
• Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of potential and target accounts.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with existing customers to ensure retention and upsell opportunities.
• Conduct telemarketing, networking, and field-based outreach to identify new leads.
• Prepare and deliver compelling proposals, presentations, and customized solutions to prospective clients.
• Collaborate with operations teams to ensure client needs are met and service excellence is achieved.
• Maintain accurate records of sales activity, revenue, and client interactions in internal systems (CRM, CargoWise, etc.).
• Communicate with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders in a professional and responsive manner.
• Submit timely sales reports, expense accounts, and related documentation.
• Achieve and exceed established sales targets and call quotas.
• Develop marketing strategies and account penetration plans aligned with company objectives.
• Stay informed of market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments.
• Present John S. Connor in a professional and consultative manner.
• Support the Norfolk Branch Manager by identifying client needs and developing growth strategies for the region.
  

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business or related field or an equivalent combination of skills training and experience.

Experience: Minimum 2–5 years of experience in logistics, freight forwarding, or supply chain sales is preferred. Will consider less experienced candidates if they have a general understading of Shipping and Logistics and Sales processes/concepts.

Skills

• Working knowledge of international freight operations (air, ocean, NVOCC).
• Demonstrated success in business development, client relationship management, and consultative selling.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office adn Google Workspace in a PC environment.
• Familiarity with transportation-related technology platforms and CRM systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines independently in a remote work environment.
• Knowledge of world geography, inland trucking, and freight market dynamics.
• Must have access to reliable transportation and be able to travel locally for client meetings.
• Demonstrated capacity to think “outside the box”, communicate and motivate customers on the company’s products, programs, and new ideas.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with CargoWise or other Transportation Management (TMS) system.
• Strategic mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Awareness of customs regulations and trade compliance issues

Why Join Us? We are a leader in global logistics and customs brokerage. As a vital player in the supply chain, we ensure our clients' shipments meet all requirements, facilitating smooth import/export operations. Join a collaborative and dynamic team in a role that offers exposure to various facets of logistics and maritime operations.

As a team member, you have access to the following benefits and compensation packages:

• Salary Range: $50,000 to $70,000 annual base compensation (depending on skills and experience) with additional earning potential through commission or incentive-based compensation for total compensation potential to be 100K+ (Dependent on meeting sales targets, goals, new buisness, etc.)
• Hybrid work flexibility (on office, working from home, and travel to client sites, sales meetings, conferences, etc.)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• HSA, FSA, and HRA options
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• Voluntary insurance offerings for employee and dependents
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Paid Vacation, Paid Time Off (PTO), and Holidays
• Educational Assistance Programs
• Recognition and reward programs
• Commitment to a supportive and inclusive work environment
  
  We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and team members. We are a smoke and drug-free workplace and ADA-compliant as applicable.

If you require reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us to request assistance.