Business Development Manager – Retail/Hardware

About the Company

Econova Group is one of Australia’s fastest-growing clean-tech brands, delivering high-performance heat pump systems to homes and businesses nationwide.

About the Role

The Business Development Manager (Retail/Hardware) is responsible for driving new growth across retail and hardware channels by expanding distribution networks, onboarding new key retail and trade accounts, and identifying new revenue opportunities. This role focuses on creating strategic supplier relationships, improving product penetration, strengthening brand awareness and building long‑term partnerships across the retail and hardware wholesale ecosystem.

ResponsibilitiesRetail/Hardware Growth & Market Expansion

• Identify and pursue new retail/hardware opportunities across distributors, retailers, and trade partners.
• Analyse market trends, pricing movements, and category performance within the retail/hardware landscape.
• Develop strategies to increase product range, floor share, and market penetration across multiple channels.
• Build business plans to expand into new geographical territories or industry segments.

Account Management & Customer Relations

• Manage key retail/hardware accounts, including national and independent retailers, distributors, and buying groups.
• Maintain strong, proactive relationships with buyers, procurement teams, and store managers.
• Conduct regular account reviews, performance tracking, and business improvement planning.
• Provide tailored solutions to meet customer needs and enhance profitability.

Sales Pipeline & Revenue Delivery

• Manage end‑to‑end sales cycles, including lead generation, quoting, negotiations, and deal closure.
• Maintain accurate sales forecasts and pipeline updates using CRM platforms.
• Monitor performance against revenue, margin, and volume targets, adjusting plans as needed.
• Collaborate with marketing to execute promotions, activations, and sell‑through opportunities.

Supplier & Product Collaboration

• Work closely with suppliers and internal product team to optimise assortments for retail/hardware customers.
• Support NPD (New Product Development) launches within retail/hardware channels.
• Analyse product performance, pricing, rebates, and incentive structures.

• Operations & Cross-Functional Coordination
• Partner with logistics and operations to ensure accurate order fulfilment and on‑time delivery.
• Collaborate with marketing on retail/hardware-specific campaigns and trade marketing initiatives.
• Provide market intelligence and feedback to the leadership team for strategic planning.

Skills and AttributesEssential

• Proven experience in wholesale, FMCG, distribution, or similar B2B environments.
• Strong understanding of retail/hardware operations, pricing structures, and margin analysis.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and commercial acumen.
• Ability to work with distributors, buying groups, and retail networks.
• Experience using CRM tools to manage pipelines and accounts.

Preferred

• Background in retail/hardware categories such as wholesale, consumer goods, food & beverage, hardware, apparel, or general merchandise.
• Understanding of supply chain and inventory dynamics.
• Competency in preparing business reviews, training, and trade presentations.

Pay range and compensation package

$100k - $120k + Super + Car Allowance. Role requires a personal vehicle for business travel.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to join our team and make a difference, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.