Business Development Consultant | Executive Retained Search

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At CBIZ Talent Solutions, we specialize in executive search and talent solutions, connecting top-tier leadership with organizations that demand excellence. Our internal recruiting experts are best-in-class, and now, we’re looking to grow our business development team with a dedicated door opener who thrives on hunting new opportunities and building initial client relationships.

We’re seeking a results-driven Business Development Consultant with a hunter mentality to identify and secure new client partnerships for our Executive Search division. You’ll be the tip of the spear – opening doors, starting conversations, and landing new accounts – before handing them off to our recruiting team for execution. This is a high-impact, client-facing role focused exclusively on net new business. You are not responsible for delivery or recruiting, solely bringing in the business. Projects typically consist of CEO/President/Executive Directors, Chief Financial Officers, Chief Operating Officers, and Chief Development Officers. Clients are broad-based across the nonprofit spectrum: NGOs, foundations, government, social service organizations, healthcare, etc.

Essential Functions and Primary Duties

• Identify, pursue, and secure new client partnerships in need of executive search services.
• Develop and execute strategic prospecting plans through networking, referrals, cold outreach, industry events, and targeted business development efforts.
• Build relationships with C-suite executives, business owners, boards, and senior leadership teams.
• Conduct discovery meetings to understand leadership challenges and position CBIZ Talent Solutions as a trusted talent advisory partner.
• Manage the full business development lifecycle, from prospecting and pipeline generation through proposal development, negotiation, and close.
• Maintain an active pipeline and accurate CRM records.
• Collaborate with recruiting leadership to ensure smooth client onboarding and engagement transition.
• Stay current on market trends, executive talent challenges, and competitive intelligence.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven success in retained executive search sales.
• Demonstrated ability to prospect, open doors, and win new business.
• Experience selling consultative, relationship-driven services to senior executives.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for building relationships and creating new opportunities.
• CRM proficiency and disciplined pipeline management.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Some relevant industry experience
• Must obtain required licenses/credentials
• Superior command of verbal, written, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Proficient use of applicable technology
• Demonstrated ability to communicate verbally and in writing throughout all levels of the organization, both internally and externally
• Must be able to travel based on client and business needs