Sales Development Specialist

Advanced Technology International (ATI) builds and manages collaborations that conduct R&D of new technologies to solve our nation's most pressing challenges. TechConnect is a division of ATI. With 25+ years of experience connecting emerging technologies with unique funding and partnership opportunities, we boast the most robust research and innovation network in the world. We employ a broad scope of tools to deliver top technologies, including open innovation programs, conferences, and open-access publications. Each year, TechConnect prospects, vets, and connects thousands of emerging technologies with corporate, investment, municipal, and national defense clients.

Position Description:

The Sales Development Specialist will be a frontline growth driver, responsible for capturing new business opportunities and expanding existing relationships for TechConnect's open innovation and technology discovery services. This role is unique: you'll operate at the intersection of business development and deep science/technology, engaging directly with R&D and innovation teams at multinational organizations. You'll translate technical needs into business opportunities, scope and sell strategic engagements, and manage a pipeline of high-value opportunities from lead generation through contract close. The ideal candidate combines a technical or scientific background with demonstrated success in consultative B2B sales. You should be as comfortable discussing emerging technologies with engineers and scientists as you are negotiating with senior executives and decision makers.

Apply at ATI.ORG; we only accept applications submitted through our applicant tracking system.

Essential Functions:
* Develops and executes business development strategies to expand TechConnect's global corporate client base.

* Builds, qualifies, and manages a dynamic pipeline of innovation services opportunities.

* Cultivates new client relationships and expand existing ones, from director-level contacts to C-suite executives.

* Conducts ongoing market research to identify emerging opportunities, scout prospects, and inform positioning.

* Oversees the full sales cycle-prospecting, scoping, proposals, negotiation, and close.

* Partners closely with marketing, program delivery, sales support, and events teams to deliver world-class client experiences.

* Promotes TechConnect services and events at conferences, networking programs, and industry functions.

* Supports and attends TechConnect events and client meetings, with travel up to 50%.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
BA/BS in business, marketing, science, engineering, or related field with 5+ years of experience, OR MS with 3+ years of experience.

Background in innovation, R&D, technology scouting, open innovation, or commercialization of science/engineering solutions is essential.

Proven success in B2B sales, consulting, or business services; demonstrated track record of meeting/exceeding sales targets.

Experience selling to and engaging with corporate innovation teams, R&D groups, and executives across industries.

Ability to design, implement, and adapt sales strategies; skilled in pipeline management and deal structuring.

Proficiency with HubSpot, LinkedIn, CRM/lead management software; outstanding communication, networking, and presentation skills.

Self-motivated, entrepreneurial, and able to thrive in a remote, fast-paced, and results-driven environment.

Must be either a U.S. Citizen by birth or naturalization.

Must be able to obtain/maintain DoD security clearance and successfully pass a background check to access sensitive information and automated systems.

Must successfully pass a background to access sensitive information and automated systems.

This position is subject to a background check that includes a review of criminal records. In reviewing an applicant's criminal history, the company will consider prior criminal convictions that have a relationship to the job duties and responsibilities of the position. The company considers the nature of the crime, the time that has elapsed since the crime and the job duties for the position at issue in making an individualized determination. Individuals may be excluded when the company determines, based on the above factors, that hiring, transferring or promoting the applicant would pose an unreasonable risk to the business, its employees or its customers and vendors.

If you are a qualified candidate, we encourage you to apply even if you have a prior criminal conviction(s). Convictions will not automatically disqualify the candidate, However, conviction(s) will be considered and balanced against the age of the candidate at the time of the offense, time elapsed since the offense, type of offense, potential impacts of such on the work environment, sensitivity of the position(s) available/sought, and similar independent factors relevant to the employment requirements at ATI.

Physical Efforts:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Regular physical activity to include walking, bending, stooping, reaching, standing and prolonged sitting.

Ability to speak, read, hear, and write, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Ability to use phone and computer systems, copier, fax, and other office equipment.

Must be able to occasionally move/lift up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment:

This position is located in an air-conditioned, environmentally controlled atmosphere.

Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

ATI is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities and all other protected classes.

Apply at ATI.ORG; we only accept applications submitted through our applicant tracking system. If you require accommodations to complete this application, please contact Human Resources at (843) 760-4350 or email hr@ati.org.

Anticipated starting salary is in range commensurate with education and experience:
$92,000 - $94,000