A global Japanese trading company specializing in plastics and packaging materials is seeking a Business Development Manager.

DEPARTMENT: Packaging Department

LOCATION: Schaumburg, IL, On-site

Position Summary

This position is responsible for import sales and marketing activities for the flexible packaging and plastics film converting industries in the Americas.

The role includes key account management, new business development, market analysis, forecasting, and customer relationship management.

The position contributes to business growth and profitability through identifying new opportunities and maintaining strong customer relationships.

Approximately 70% of the role focuses on existing account management and 30% on new business development, including expanding relationships with U.S.-based customers.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development

• Manage and expand relationships with existing customers (approximately 70% of responsibilities).
• Identify and develop new business opportunities (approximately 30% of responsibilities).
• Develop new relationships with U.S.-based customers (approximately 30–40% of business development efforts).
• Approach potential customers using existing prospect lists and market research rather than cold calling.
• Conduct market research to identify customer needs, industry trends, pricing, and global competition.
• Utilize the company’s global network to explore new business opportunities.
• Make presentations to prospective customers and vendors.

Strategy & Market Analysis

• Monitor macro and micro market trends including supply/demand, pricing, and customer requirements.
• Develop strategies for new product development and market expansion.
• Respond to industry trends such as sustainability and recycling initiatives.

Reporting & Administration

• Report key business updates and market insights to management.
• Work closely with Customer Service, Sales Assistants, and Accounting during monthly closing processes.
• Support invoice and payment coordination.
• Prepare internal reports and documentation.
• Review sales budgets and forecasts with management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Experience in sales or marketing within plastics film, resin, or flexible packaging industry preferred.
• Technical knowledge in plastics, polymer, or chemical fields is a plus.
• Business-level Japanese is a plus but not required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and customer requests in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles and INCOTERMS is a plus.