Imperative Logistics- Director, Business Development - Global Freight Forwarding - IL

Director of Business Development – Global Freight Forwarding - Chicago Market

About Imperative Logistics

Imperative Logistics is a trusted leader in global freight forwarding, specializing in highly complex air, ocean, and ground shipments, customs brokerage, and a full suite of international logistics services. With offices at major international shipping hubs and a global network of agents and partners, we are a critical partner in the supply chains of some of the world’s most demanding industries.

We are well known for our expertise in technology, healthcare, energy, aerospace, and chemicals verticals. Our team delivers exceptional customer service, flexible transit times, and efficient operations, turning the most difficult logistics challenges into manageable solutions. At Imperative Logistics, we don’t just move freight, we move businesses forward.

Position Overview

As a Director of Business Development, you will drive revenue growth by identifying and securing new business opportunities, cultivating long-term strategic relationships, and delivering tailored, global transportation solutions. This is a high-impact, individual contributor role—ideal for a global freight forwarding professional with a hunter mentality, deep industry knowledge, and the ability to think strategically while executing with precision.

If you have 5+ years of experience in international freight forwarding, we want to hear from you. We will shape this opportunity around your strengths, seniority, and existing network.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead New Business Development: Expand Imperative Logistics market presence across assigned territories and verticals.
• Hunter Sales Execution: Generate new pipeline through outbound outreach, referrals, and network activation.
• Strategic Relationship Building: Cultivate long-term relationships with key decision-makers at prospective and existing client organizations.
• Lead Management: Engage with sales leads from the Corporate Sales Office and global partners, ensuring timely follow-up and conversion.
• Client Engagement: Conduct in-person and virtual meetings, including travel within assigned regions, to present Imperative Logistics value proposition.
• Solution Selling: Deliver compelling, client-focused presentations that showcase our logistics capabilities and service advantages.
• Client Onboarding: Oversee onboarding and implementation of new clients, including SOP development and pricing strategy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with operations and account management to ensure service excellence and long-term satisfaction.
• CRM Discipline: Maintain accurate records of pipeline activity, customer interactions, and sales progress.
• Market Intelligence: Research and qualify leads using industry events, directories, digital tools, and referrals.
• Brand Representation: Represent Imperative Logistics at industry events, conferences, and client meetings.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 5 years of experience in international freight forwarding sales (air/ocean, import/export, customs brokerage).
• Proven success in managing a sales territory and closing new business.
• Strong understanding of global transportation, pricing models, and logistics operations.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and execute tactically.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in CRM tools (Salesforce, HubSpot, ZoomInfo) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with key verticals: Healthcare, Biotech, Life Sciences, Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Technology, Specialty Automotive, or Specialty Chemicals.
• Must reside in the territory and be available for in-person meetings as needed.
• Experience managing long sales cycles, RFPs, and multi-year agreements.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Existing network of client relationships.
• Background in high-growth, entrepreneurial logistics environments.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary + Uncapped commission from day one
• Car allowance
• Full benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with company match, PTO
• Leadership support from logistics industry veterans
• Career growth opportunities and internal promotion pathways
• Performance-driven culture that rewards innovation and results

We offer you a competitive total rewards package, continuing education & training, and tremendous pote