Are you passionate about coffee AND professional networking? Do you know the coffee and office refreshment industry and how to speak our language? Do you enjoy discovering new prospects, building relationships, and growing a business? If so, we are looking for you!

Canteen, a division of Compass Group North America, is seeking a Business Development Associate in Chicago, IL. Our ideal candidate is accountable to their goals, wants to work with a team of winners, has a competitive spirit and is committed to contributing to the overall success of our team. Reporting to the Regional Vice President of Sales –the Business Development Associate will support our sales cycles and processes by generating leads, developing prospects, assisting with complex proposals/bids/contracts and supporting the Regional Sales Directors with special projects to win new business.

This position is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, sales-focused individual seeking to grow into a Regional Sales Director role. *This is an entry-level sales support role. ** It is bonus eligible.

The primary responsibility for this role is to work collaboratively with the Regional Vice President of Sales and the Regional Sales Directors to create and win new business opportunities. Key tasks include:

o Identify new business opportunities and targets across several verticals and lines of service

o Coordinate the efforts of sales support teams to develop campaigns and collateral to penetrate high potential targets

o Conduct extensive prospect research utilizing a suite of on-line research tools

o Qualify viable targets for active pursuits through cold calling and email campaigns

o Convert viable targets into active sales processes utilizing the Compass Sales process

o Maintain accurate and timely records in the CRM

o Participate in and support the proposal development/bid response process including strategy sessions, site tours, creative development, financial modeling and presentation development/rehearsals

o Support the contract process

Preferred Qualifications:

• High energy, positive attitude and excellent communication/presentation skills

• Ability to build and foster relationships with individuals at all levels both internally and externally

• Flexible and able to shift priorities with ease

• Strong time management skills with the ability to multi-task

• Resourceful and willing to take initiative to get things done

• Excellent listening skills and a propensity for continual learning

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Strong computer skills and ability to work with online research tools and CRM database management system

• A desire to win and be part of a winning team

• Bachelor’s Degree or business-related experience

• Ability to travel up to 25%