Director of Business Development

JDA Worldwide is a full-service marketing agency serving national, emerging, and category-leading brands since 2003. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, JDA specializes in brand, creative, digital, paid media, and public relations. JDA is a portfolio company of Prolific - the growth firm. Our network of companies has been named to the Inc. 5000 for eight consecutive years and named a top Indiana employer for five straight years. JDA is filled with talented, hardworking, kind, low ego teammates. Join us!

The Director of Business Development will play a critical role in shaping the agency's growth strategy and securing new business opportunities. This individual will be responsible for building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with prospective clients, managing the full sales lifecycle, and consistently closing deals that align with the agency's capabilities. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled communicator, relationship-builder, and a proven closer who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Our culture fosters growth and development, and we have top-notch employee perks and benefits. Some noteworthy examples are a flexible work-life integration, agency and portfolio company collaborations, award-winning office space, 401(k) matching, and complimentary snacks and drinks in all offices.

Responsibilities

• Business Development Strategy:
  Develop and execute a strategic business development plan that aligns with the agency's goals and market positioning. Identify and target new business opportunities, including prospective clients and verticals.
• Relationship Building:
  Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with C-suite executives, decision-makers, and key stakeholders. Establish trust and rapport to foster long-lasting partnerships
• Sales Process Management:
  Own the entire sales process-from lead generation, qualifying prospects, crafting tailored proposals, conducting presentations, negotiating contracts, to closing new business deals.
• Networking & Market Intelligence:
  Attend industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to build connections and stay informed about market trends, competitor activities, and potential leads.
• Client Engagement & Retention:
  Ensure a seamless transition from new business acquisition to client onboarding. Provide strategic support to ensure client satisfaction and continued partnership growth.
• Collaboration with Internal Teams:
  Work closely with internal teams (creative, strategy, media, and operations) to understand capabilities, manage expectations, and align pitches with the agency's strengths.
• Sales Metrics & Reporting:
  Track, measure, and report on business development performance, including key performance indicators (KPIs) such as revenue growth, deal closure rates, and client acquisition targets.
• Negotiation & Closing:
  Take ownership of contract negotiations and ensure favorable terms for both the client and the agency. Utilize closing techniques to ensure deals are finalized efficiently and effectively.

Requirements

• Proven Success in Business Development:
  Minimum of 7+ years of experience in business development or sales in the marketing, advertising, or digital agency industry. Strong track record of meeting and exceeding revenue goals.
• Relationship Management Expertise:
  Ability to build rapport and trust with high-level stakeholders, turning prospects into long-term clients. Exceptional networking and interpersonal skills.
• Strong Negotiation Skills:
  Demonstrated experience in handling high-value contracts, negotiating terms, and closing complex deals.
• Strategic Thinker:
  Strong ability to develop strategic sales plans, identify new markets and opportunities, and understand the broader competitive landscape.
• Communication & Presentation Skills:
  Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to deliver compelling presentations and proposals to clients at all levels.
• Self-Motivated & Results-Driven:
  Highly self-motivated with the ability to work independently while also being a collaborative team player. Strong drive for achieving sales targets and business growth.
• CRM & Sales Tools Proficiency:
  Experience with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and sales automation tools to track leads, opportunities, and deals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a leadership or management role within an agency environment.
• A deep understanding of the full-service marketing landscape, including digital marketing, creative services, media buying, and branding.
• Strong industry network and established relationships with key players across various sectors.

If you're a dynamic, results-oriented business development professional who thrives on building relationships and closing deals, we'd love to hear from you!

Benefits

• Group Health Insurance (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• 401k Matching Plan
• Flexible PTO + Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Training + development opportunities
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Life insurance (100% company paid)
• Short-Term + Long-Term Disability (100% company paid)
• Hybrid work setting and casual dress
• On-site fitness center
• Free snacks + drinks available in the office
• Free downtown parking