Business Development Associate, Technomic – Chicago (Office-Based)

Company Description

We are part of Informa, a global business with a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries, and a member of the FTSE 100.

Our purpose is to connect our customers with the information and people that empower them to know more, do more, and be more. No other company in the world helps more people share professional knowledge or make business connections.

Each year, we run around 800 events, create digital platforms centered on engaging news and information content, and operate professional development programs for individuals and businesses.

Job Description

• This role pays between $55,000 – $65,000 USD, based on experience, plus commission.
• Must be tied to our Informa Office in Chicago, IL.
• The job posting will expire on May 9, 2025.

About Us

Technomic, a division of Informa Connect, is the premier provider of data-driven insights for the foodservice and alcoholic beverage industries. Our comprehensive research platforms deliver unparalleled intelligence on restaurants, beverages, and market trends that drive industry success.

The Opportunity

We're seeking an ambitious, results-driven Business Development Associate to join our dynamic team. This role offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders and shape the future of foodservice intelligence.

What You'll Do

• Drive new business development through strategic prospecting and lead generation
• Execute targeted outreach campaigns via phone, email, and social media
• Conduct discovery calls and coordinate product demonstrations
• Partner with Business Development Managers to achieve revenue targets
• Research and identify high-potential opportunities within assigned territories
• Customize communication strategies to showcase our solutions' value proposition

What You'll Bring

• 1+ years of experience in Business Development, Sales Development, or similar role
• Proven track record in outbound prospecting and lead generation
• Strong phone presence and confidence in cold calling
• Excellence in fast-paced environments
• Self-motivated attitude with a growth mindset
• Sharp business acumen and quick thinking abilities

Why Technomic?

• Work with industry leaders in foodservice and beverage sectors
• Access to cutting-edge market intelligence and research
• Collaborative, high-energy work environment
• Clear path for career advancement
• Opportunity to impact major players in the food and beverage industry

Impact

Your role will be instrumental in connecting industry leaders with the insights they need to drive growth and innovation in the foodservice sector.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Experience as a Business Development Representative (BDR), Sales Development Representative (SDR), or equivalent role
• Demonstrated proficiency with lead generation platforms:
  • LinkedIn Sales Navigator
  • Salesloft
  • Salesforce
  • Other industry-standard prospecting tools
• Expert in CRM software for tracking conversations, opportunities, and metrics
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills
• Strong foundation in foodservice and retail industry knowledge

Key Attributes

• Self-motivated professional who thrives both independently and in team settings
• Natural curiosity about foodservice trends and market dynamics
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Data-driven approach to prospecting and lead qualification
• Excellence in relationship building and strategic communication

Technical Skills

• CRM management and reporting
• Sales automation tools
• Digital prospecting platforms
• Microsoft Office Suite
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint
  • Word
  • Outlook

This role offers the perfect blend of independence and collaboration, ideal for a driven professional looking to advance in foodservice industry sales.

Additional Information

We work hard to make sure Life at Informa is rewarding, supportive and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s some of what you can expect when you join us. But don’t just take our word for it – see what our colleagues have to say at LifeAt.Informa.com.

Our benefits include:

• Freedom & flexibility: colleagues rate us highly for the flexibility and trust they receive, and we support a range of working patterns
• Great community: a welcoming culture with in-person and online social events, our fantastic Walk the World charity day and active diversity and inclusion networks 
• Broader impact: take up to four days per year to volunteer, with charity match funding available too
• Career opportunity: the opportunity to develop your career with bespoke training and learning, mentoring platforms and on-demand access to thousands of courses on LinkedIn Learning. When it’s time for the next step, we encourage and support internal job moves
• Time out: 15 days PTO rising to 20 after three years and 25 after six years, plus 10 national holidays, a birthday leave day and the chance to work from (almost!) anywhere for up to four weeks a year 
• Competitive benefits, including a 401k match, parental leave and an ESPP offering company shares at a minimum 15% discount 
• Strong wellbeing support through EAP assistance, mental health first aiders, free access to a wellness app and more
• Recognition for great work, with global awards and kudos programs 
• As an international company, the chance to collaborate with teams around the world 

We’re not solely focused on a checklist of skills. We champion energy and ambition and look for colleagues who will roll their sleeves up, join in and help make things happen. If it sounds like a match and you have most – although not all – of the skills and experience listed, we welcome your application.

At Informa, you'll find inclusive experiences and environments where all perspectives and backgrounds are welcomed. As part of this approach and our diversity and inclusion commitments, we are also formally an Equal Opportunities Employer. This means we base decisions on relevant qualifications and merit and do not discriminate on the basis of key characteristics and statuses, including all of those protected by law. Ask us or see our website for full information.

See how Informa handles your personal data when you apply for a job here.