Principal, Business Development

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in building the business development pipeline and identifying acquisition opportunities in line with the business plan.
• Identify, qualify, and prioritize leads through the use of appropriate tools, local market data, and active targeted prospecting.
• Prepare informational material and communication drafts, supporting the external affairs manager in developing marketing materials for business development.
• Update the business development plan and assess risks to secure sustainable business growth.
• Manage the end-to-end business development cycle, coordinate and sometimes lead a multifunctional deal team for acquisition proposals and presentations.
• Lead development and bid strategy; assist with deal structuring, finance, and credit assessment of opportunities, and champion projects through internal and external processes.
• Assist with asset valuation studies, financial analysis, and operational viability assessments of targeted opportunities.
• Create market awareness and develop relationships with key industry stakeholders, including government leaders and regulators, through participation in public meetings, tradeshows, and conferences.
• Evaluate regulatory changes and other relevant factors to identify new business opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Marketing, Engineering, or Science.
• 12+ years of work experience, including 6 to 8 years in business development, with significant experience working with municipal officials.
• Experience preferably within the water/wastewater utility sector.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.
• Knowledge of legal aspects of the regulatory environment.
• Understanding of municipal government processes, including budgeting, procurement, and political dynamics.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including presentation and report writing.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills such as relationship building, persuasion, negotiation, and diplomacy.
• Proficiency with Customer Relationship Management platforms (e.g., Salesforce) or ability to learn quickly.
• Ability to adapt to professional environments, deal with ambiguity, take initiative, and achieve results.
• Experience managing travel, expense reporting, and consultant contracts in compliance with company policies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

Nice to Have

• Strong knowledge of the water industry.
• Experience with asset valuation studies and financial analysis.
• Experience working with municipal officials and understanding of municipal processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary range of $98,800 - $165,100 with potential annual incentive pay and salary growth opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage.
• Disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs.
• Opportunities for professional growth and learning experiences.