Sales Lead/Business Development Manager

Job Description

Job Summary The Proposal Lead manages the end-to-end proposal process for plastic injection molds, dies, jigs, and fixtures , ensuring technically sound, cost-effective, and profitable solutions. This role blends deep technical knowledge (Product cost & Pricing, DFM, mold flow) with strong business acumen (lead tracking, market analysis) to drive customer acquisition and retention. The Proposal Lead also mentors junior engineers, develops pricing strategies, and acts as the primary technical liaison for key accounts. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic Proposal Leadership Own the complete proposal lifecycle from RFQ analysis to final submission. Ensure proposals align with customer expectations and internal profitability targets. Implement pricing updates for existing customers based on market dynamics (e.g., material cost fluctuations, inflation, competitor pricing). Mentor junior proposal engineers in DFM practices, mold flow analysis, and costing methodologies. 2. Advanced Technical Proposal Development Conduct feasibility studies and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) reviews for complex molds (e.g., multi-cavity, hot runner, overmolding). Perform mold flow simulations ) to validate part fill, cooling, and warpage. Review 2D/3D CAD models and work with engineering teams to optimize tooling for manufacturability. 3. Precision Costing & Commercial Strategy Create detailed cost models including: Materials (tool steels, hot runners, mold accessories) Machining (CNC, EDM, polishing), labor, and overheads Post-processing costs (if applicable) Benchmark costs using historical data and competitor analysis. Negotiate pricing with vendors for outsourced mold components (bases, inserts, hot runners, etc.). 4. Business Development & Analytics Generate new inquiries from Engineering, Aero space, Railway, automotive, medical and Pharma, consumer goods sectors via research and outreach. Monitor lead conversion metrics (e.g., RFQ-to-order ratio) using CRM tools and improve win rates. Conduct root cause analysis for lost bids and refine proposal strategy accordingly. 5. Customer & Stakeholder Management Serve as the primary technical contact for customers during the proposal stage. Present and justify proposals using data-driven insights . Coordinate with production, procurement, and quality teams to ensure seamless post-order execution. Responsible for managing outstanding payments, addressing customer complaints, and ensuring timely resolution of client concerns. Qualifications & Skills Education & Experience Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Plastics, or Tool Engineering . Minimum 7+ years in proposal engineering. Minimum 3+ years in mold/tool design or manufacturing. Proven experience in plastic injection molding , preferably in automotive or medical sectors. Technical Competencies DFM & Mold Flow Analysis Gate design, cooling channels, parting lines. Cost Estimation Strong command of pricing trends, machining rates, and cost breakdowns, CAD & Simulation – Proficiency in SolidWorks and basic ERP systems. Materials Science – Thermoplastics, tool steels, and surface treatments. Leadership & Soft Skills Strategic Pricing – Balancing competitive and profitable pricing strategies. Negotiation – Effective communication with both customers and suppliers. Analytical Thinking – Benchmarking competitors, identifying market gaps. Customer-Centric – Problem-solving and relationship-building with key accounts. Preferred Qualifications Industry experience with automotive OEMs and medical device tooling . Proficiency in CRM tools and advanced Excel for cost modeling. Performance Metrics Proposal Win Rate – Target: >30% (industry benchmark) Lead Conversion Time – Inquiry to order cycle Cost Estimation Accuracy – Within 5% variance Customer Satisfaction – Measured via Net Promoter Score (NPS) Work Environment Office-based: ~70% Travel: 20–30% (for customer meetings, industry expos, etc.)