Role Overview for VP Business Development with a Beverage Co-Packer–Orlando, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly expanding beverage co-packer in the vibrant Orlando, Florida area. Our client is at the forefront of beverage innovation, providing end-to-end manufacturing solutions for some of the most exciting brands in the market, from functional wellness drinks and energy shots to ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails and specialty coffees. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to quality and client success, they are poised for exponential growth. To spearhead this expansion, we are seeking a dynamic, results-driven, and visionary Vice President of Business Development.
This is a pivotal executive leadership role reporting directly to the CEO. The VP of Business Development will be the primary architect of the company’s commercial growth strategy. You will be responsible for identifying new market opportunities, building and nurturing a high-performance sales team, forging powerful strategic partnerships, and securing multi-million dollar contracts with new and existing clients. The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of the beverage industry, a proven track record in contract manufacturing sales, and an insatiable drive to win. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing organization and shape the future of the beverage co-packing landscape.
You will be joining a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. The successful candidate will not only be a master of the deal but also a strategic thinker who can collaborate effectively with Operations, R&D, Finance, and Quality Assurance to deliver a seamless and superior client experience. If you are a strategic sales leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about the beverage industry, we invite you to apply for this career-defining role.
Key Responsibilities of VP Business Development with a Beverage Co-Packer–Orlando, FL
As the Vice President of Business Development, you will own the entire commercial engine of the organization. Your responsibilities will be broad and impactful, encompassing strategic planning, sales execution, team leadership, and client relationship management. Success in this role will be measured by revenue growth, market share expansion, and the overall health of the sales pipeline.
Strategic Growth and Market Expansion
Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year business development strategy that aligns with the company’s ambitious growth targets. Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify emerging trends, new product categories, and untapped customer segments. Position the company as the co-packer of choice for high-growth beverage brands.
Sales Leadership and Team Development
Build, mentor, and lead a world-class business development and sales team. Establish clear sales targets, KPIs, and performance metrics. Implement a structured sales process and provide ongoing coaching and professional development to ensure team success. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
High-Value Client Acquisition
Personally lead the charge in identifying, pursuing, and closing deals with key national and regional beverage brands. Develop and manage a robust pipeline of qualified leads, leveraging your industry network and market expertise. Craft compelling proposals and presentations that showcase the company’s unique value proposition.
Contract Negotiation and Management
Lead complex contract negotiations, working closely with legal and finance teams to structure profitable and sustainable long-term agreements. Ensure all contractual obligations are clearly defined and met, laying the foundation for successful client partnerships.
Key Account Management
Cultivate and deepen relationships with existing strategic clients to drive retention, identify upselling opportunities, and foster long-term loyalty. Act as a senior point of contact and strategic advisor, ensuring the highest levels of client satisfaction.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a critical link between the commercial team and internal departments. Collaborate with Operations to assess production capacity, with R&D on new product development capabilities, and with Finance on pricing strategies and profitability analysis. Ensure a seamless transition from sales to project execution.
Industry Presence and Market Intelligence
Represent the company at key industry trade shows, conferences, and networking events to enhance brand visibility and generate leads. Stay ahead of market dynamics, competitive landscape, and regulatory changes by actively engaging with resources like the Contract Packaging Association and other industry bodies.
Forecasting and Reporting
Develop accurate sales forecasts and budgets. Provide regular, insightful reports to the executive leadership team on sales performance, pipeline status, and market trends, offering strategic recommendations for improvement and growth.
Requirements for the VP Business Development with a Beverage Co-Packer–Orlando, FL
We are seeking a candidate with a distinguished career in business development within the CPG manufacturing space. The ideal individual will possess a unique blend of strategic acumen, sales prowess, leadership skills, and deep industry knowledge.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in business development, sales, and commercial leadership roles. At least 7-10 years of this experience must be within the food and beverage contract manufacturing (co-packing) industry.
Proven Track Record
Demonstrable history of achieving and exceeding multi-million dollar annual sales targets. A proven ability to build and scale a successful sales organization is essential.
Industry Expertise
Deep knowledge of the beverage manufacturing process, including various packaging formats (cans, bottles, cartons), processing techniques (hot-fill, cold-fill, aseptic), and quality standards. A strong existing network of contacts within the beverage brand community is a significant asset.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and team management skills with experience hiring, training, and motivating sales professionals. Ability to lead by example and inspire a high-performance culture.
Negotiation and Financial Acumen
Masterful negotiation skills with experience structuring complex, long-term supply agreements. Strong financial literacy, including the ability to develop pricing models, analyze profitability, and manage a P&L.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and long-term, translating market insights into actionable growth initiatives. Experience in developing and executing comprehensive business plans.
Communication Skills
Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences, from C-suite executives to technical operations staff.
Technical Proficiency
Proficient in CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Personal Attributes
High-energy, self-motivated, and results-oriented. Possesses a strong sense of urgency, integrity, and a collaborative spirit. Willingness to travel as needed (estimated 30-40%) to meet with clients and attend industry events.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their people and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top executive talent. This includes:
Competitive Executive Salary
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Lucrative Bonus Structure
A significant performance-based annual bonus tied to individual and company performance goals.
Equity Participation
The potential for equity or long-term incentive plan participation, allowing you to share in the company’s success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday policy to support work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Professional Development
Support for continuous learning, including industry certifications, conferences, and executive coaching.
Dynamic Work Environment
An opportunity to work with a passionate and innovative team in a high-growth industry.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary business development leader with the experience and drive to lead our client’s commercial growth, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the consumer packaged goods sector. We specialize in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading companies. To learn more about our expertise and view other opportunities, please visit our CPG Co-Manufacturing & Co-Packer Executive Search practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a transformative impact with our client.
