Director of Business Development chez Charter Manufacturing Company, Inc.

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better.  Join the team and become part of our family!

The Director of Business Development is a high-impact leadership role focused on driving Charter Manufacturing’s long-term growth through strategic, corporate development initiatives. Reporting directly to the Executive Vice President of Strategy & Corporate Development, this role is at the forefront of identifying, shaping, and executing opportunities in emerging markets, technologies, and partnerships. It requires a strategic thinker and hands-on leader who thrives in cross-functional environments and someone who can translate bold ideas into scalable, value-generating business ventures across the organization.

Position Specifics

• This position will be in Mequon, WI at our corporate headquarters
• Expectation of 30%-40% travel

What You’ll Lead and Drive

Strategic Growth Identification

• Spot and assess emerging markets, technologies, and adjacent opportunities that align with Charter’s long-term vision. Build compelling business cases that unlock future growth.

Business Development & Partnerships

• Lead strategic partnership development across government, industry, and technology sectors. Represent Charter at key trade shows, conferences, and initiatives—expanding our network and influence. Be a visible, trusted ambassador for the company.

Market & Competitive Intelligence

• Stay ahead of the curve by tracking competitors, industry shifts, and geopolitical dynamics that shape strategic opportunities.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate seamlessly across Operations, Finance, Engineering, Legal, HR, and Business Unit leadership to bring initiatives to life. Influence outcomes and drive alignment—without relying on formal authority.

Strategic Planning Support

• Partner closely with the EVP and BU leaders to shape and support enterprise-wide and business unit-specific growth strategies.

What you’ll need

• MBA or advanced degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive experience in business development, new product development, strategy, corporate development, or related roles (industrial/manufacturing or B2B preferred).
• Demonstrated success in building business cases, leading cross-functional initiatives, and securing buy-in.
• Strong financial acumen with experience evaluating ROI and managing transaction pipelines.
• Track record of operating in ambiguous environments, connecting dots across functions, and executing through influence.
• Excellent business acumen, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to travel up to 30–40%.

Nice to have:

• Background in engineering, investment banking, strategy consulting, or private equity with industrials/metals exposure.
• Knowledge of ferrous/non-ferrous markets or steel industry dynamics.
• Experience working with government customers or defense-related business development.
• Prior success in emerging technologies, growth markets or entrepreneurial ventures.
• Familiarity with Lean / Continuous Improvement frameworks.
• Experience leading or mentoring high-potential teams.

We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).