Business Development Manager – Automation & Robotics (Remote – Alabama)

We are an innovative, Vancouver-based startup at the forefront of robotics, AI, and machine vision technologies. Backed by VC funding and recognized as a 2024 BCTIA Growth Award winner, we are on a mission to redefine the future of AI-driven robotic vision systems.  Apera AI helps manufacturers make their factories more flexible and productive. Robots enhanced with Apera’s software have 4D Vision – the ability to see and handle objects with human-like capability. Challenging applications such as bin picking, sorting, packaging, and assembly are now open to fast, precise, and reliable automation. Apera is led by an experienced team from high-growth companies focused on robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.

About Apera 

Do you love your car? Use a dishwasher? Apera AI is revolutionizing how they're made. Our 4D Vision technology provides industrial robots with human-like vision and AI-powered intelligence, dramatically increasing reliability, speed, and accuracy in vision-guided robotic automation. We unlock factory performance, empowering automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and other industrial manufacturers to achieve unmatched levels of productivity, quality, and cost savings. 
 
With hundreds of successful deployments across North America and a recent round of capital funding, Apera is growing fast—and we’re looking for a driven, strategic Business Development Manager to help us expand into new accounts and markets.  
 
This is a remote role based in Alabama, with travel as needed to client sites and events. 

What will I be doing? 

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You’ll be on the frontlines driving revenue growth by identifying and closing new business opportunities in the manufacturing automation space. Working with OEMs, integrators, end users, and distribution partners, you’ll uncover use cases where Apera’s 4D Vision can add transformational value. You’ll also leverage our AI-powered Sales Tech Stack to improve prospecting, qualify opportunities, and shorten sales cycles. 

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Major Objectives 

1. Acquire and Close New Business 

Within the first 6–12 months, generate a pipeline of qualified leads and close high-value deals across key verticals. Use AI-enabled lead generation and CRM tools to increase efficiency and conversion rates. Consistently meet or exceed assigned revenue targets while preserving profitability. 

       2.Grow Strategic Accounts 

Expand business within existing accounts by identifying additional applications for Apera’s technology. Partner with engineering and application teams to develop tailored solutions. Use predictive analytics and CRM data to guide renewal, upsell, and cross-sell opportunities. 

       3.Drive Market Penetration Through Strategic Sales Execution 

Design and implement go-to-market strategies aligned with company growth goals. Build and manage partnerships with OEMs, integrators, and other key stakeholders. Provide quarterly performance reports that include KPIs like pipeline growth, win rates, and customer expansion.

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Critical Key Results

      1. Conduct Market Analysis 

Within 60 days, complete a detailed analysis of customer segments, competitors, and territory dynamics. Use AI tools to identify emerging trends and develop data-backed insights that inform targeting strategies.

      2. Implement 30-60-90 Day Action Plan 

Within the first 90 days, execute a structured onboarding and sales engagement plan. This includes specific goals for meetings, demos, and proposals, ensuring momentum and early wins.

       3. Collaborate with Technical Teams to Deliver Value 

Partner with Application Engineering to shape client-specific solutions. Use collaborative platforms to streamline proposal creation and ensure seamless handoff from sale to execution.

     4. Lead Project Management for Key Sales Wins 

For major deals, oversee execution timelines and stakeholder alignment to en