Director of Business Development

Why RoboForce

RoboForce is an AI robotics company developing Physical AI–powered Robo-Labor for dull, dirty, and dangerous work. The company’s robots are engineered for demanding industrial environments, with a focus on real-world deployment and scalability.

We are seeking an accomplished Director of Business Development to lead and scale our go-to-market strategy, forge high-value partnerships, and drive revenue growth across multiple industries. This role is central to shaping the company’s commercial direction and ensuring that our cutting-edge robotics technology achieves broad market adoption.

The ideal candidate brings both strategic vision and operational excellence, with demonstrated success in building and leading business development functions. They will establish and manage a high-performance team, develop market entry strategies, and directly engage with executives, customers, and partners to expand our commercial footprint.

This is a high-impact executive role for a growth-oriented leader who thrives in fast-paced, unstructured environments and is motivated to help define the future of robotics at scale.

Location

• We offer flexibility for this position: candidates may work on-site at our Milpitas, CA office or remotely

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
• Define and drive the company’s business development strategy, aligning with overall corporate objectives.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing business development team.
• Partner with the executive team to shape market expansion, pricing strategy, and partnership models.
  
• Market Development & Partnerships
• Identify, evaluate, and secure partnerships with industry leaders, channel partners, and key customers in target sectors (e.g., energy, logistics, ocean shipping, mining, manufacturing).
• Establish and deepen C-level relationships with strategic accounts.
• Represent the company in industry forums, trade associations, and with regulatory stakeholders to influence adoption and policy.
  
• Revenue & Pipeline Growth
• Own the full business development lifecycle: strategy, pipeline generation, negotiation, and closing of major deals.
• Establish, monitor, and report on KPIs for revenue growth, market penetration, and partnership outcomes.
  Consistently meet or exceed organizational revenue and growth objectives.
  
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Work closely with product, engineering, and operations to align customer needs with technology development.
• Provide market intelligence and feedback to guide product roadmap and GTM adjustments.
• Collaborate with marketing on brand positioning, messaging, and demand generation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline. MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in business development, strategic partnerships, or sales leadership in robotics, automation, industrial technology, or related fields.
• Proven record of building and scaling revenue organizations, with direct accountability for substantial revenue targets.
• Demonstrated success in developing enterprise-level relationships and navigating complex, multi-stakeholder sales cycles.
• Strong technical acumen with the ability to credibly engage both technical and executive stakeholders.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Entrepreneurial and strategic mindset with the ability to thrive in a lean, high-growth startup environment.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present to board members, investors, and strategic partners.

Benefits

• Competitive stock options/equity programs.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plan.
• Visa sponsorship and green card support for qualified candidates.
• Lunches and dinners, a fully stocked kitchen, and regular team-building events.