2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants The Business Development Director drives AAT's global growth by identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities in the international aquaria construction sector.
This role strategically expands the client base, cultivates key partnerships, and ensures offerings align with evolving market demands and investor goals.
This role leads the implementation, management, and continuous improvement of CRM system, dashboards and KPI's, optimizing sales, client relations, and data-driven growth.
The Business Development Director works closely with the Design Manager, Engineering Director, Project Managers and Operations Managers to integrate commercial objectives with technical solutions, project requirements, and operational capabilities — ensuring AAT's continued leadership in the industry.
Advanced Aquarium Technologies is a dynamic international business, founded and led from Australia, with operations in the USA, China, the Philippines, and a global network of partners and specialists.
Our team brings together a unique blend of expertise—from marine biology and animal care to specialist manufacturing, construction, and innovation—united by a shared passion for the global zoo and aquarium sector.
Every day, our fast-paced, skilled team collaborates across borders to plan and deliver exceptional projects worldwide.
Key Responsibilities Of The Business Development Director: Develop and execute global business development strategies to capture new markets aligned with AAT's growth and niche in aquarium and zoo construction.
Identify and develop business opportunities specifically within the aquarium, zoo, swimming pool, and emerging aquatic applications markets, leveraging AAT's expertise to tailor solutions that meet the unique needs of these niche sectors.
Lead the implementation, management, and continuous improvement of CRM system, dashboards and KPI's.
Collaborate with industry experts, architects, and aquatic specialists to promote innovative design and construction concepts that enhance visitor experience and operational efficiency in aquariums, zoos, and aquatic recreational facilities.
Lead global expansion efforts, with a particular focus on identifying, developing, and managing new business opportunities;, including recruiting top sales talent in key international regions.
Lead the identification, engagement, and acquisition of new partners, and investors, building strong relationships to expand AAT's customer base and revenue streams.
Oversee the preparation, negotiation, and closing of commercial proposals, contracts, and agreements, ensuring alignment with client needs, project budgets, and company profitability targets.
Collaborate closely with internal teams, including Design, Engineering, and Operations —to ensure business development initiatives are technically feasible and aligned with project delivery capabilities.
Represent AAT at industry events, conferences, and client meetings to promote the company's brand, capabilities, and value proposition.
Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and performance metrics related to business development activities, reporting regularly to senior management.
Mentor and lead the business development team, fostering a high-performance culture focused on achieving growth targets and delivering exceptional client service.
Qualifications & Professional Experience: Bachelor's Degree (Required): A bachelor's degree in business administration, Marketing, Engineering, Marine Science, Aquaculture, or a related field is typically required to ensure foundational knowledge relevant to the role.
Advanced Degree (Preferred): An MBA or other advanced degree in business, management, or a relevant technical discipline is highly desirable to support strategic leadership and complex decision-making responsibilities.
Proven Business Development Experience (Required): At least 15+ years of progressive experience in business development, sales, or commercial roles within related industries such as aquarium construction, aquaculture, aquatic facilities, or environmental technology.
Industry-Specific Knowledge (Preferred): Demonstrated understanding of the aquarium, zoo, swimming pool, and aquatic applications markets, including technical, regulatory, and commercial aspects, is important to effectively engage clients and develop tailored solutions.
Language and Regional Expertise: For roles involving specific markets (e.g., APAC, China, Middle East), relevant language skills and knowledge of local business practices and regulations are valuable assets.
Technical or Environmental Certifications (Optional): Certifications related to marine biology, environmental science, or sustainable aquatic systems may support credibility and deeper understanding of client needs in specialized aquatic sectors.
What We're Looking For: Strategic Thinking and Planning - Ability to develop and execute comprehensive business development strategies aligned with company goals and market dynamics.
Sales and Negotiation Expertise - Proven skills in identifying opportunities, building pipelines, negotiating contracts, and closing deals to drive revenue growth.
Proficient in using CRM platforms, preferably Microsoft 365 Dynamics or similar, with the ability to leverage these tools effectively to manage sales pipelines, enhance customer relationships, and drive business development success.
Construction & Capital Projects industry knowledge and Commercial Acumen.
Relationship Building and Client Management - Exceptional interpersonal skills to establish, nurture, and maintain long-term relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders.
Communication and Presentation Skills - Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively present proposals, influence stakeholders, and represent AAT at industry events.
Leadership and Team Management - Experience in leading, mentoring, and motivating cross-functional teams to achieve business development objectives.
Adaptability and Problem-Solving - Capacity to navigate complex challenges, adapt strategies as needed, and provide innovative solutions in a dynamic industry landscape.
How To Apply: Candidates are invited to apply via Linked In or by emailing We encourage applicants to include a cover letter outlining why you believe this role aligns with your skills, experience, and career goals, and what you would bring to the position.
(If applying via Linked In, please combine your cover letter and resume into a single document for upload.) Want to learn more about AAT? Check out our video.
Seniority level Seniority level Director Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Business Development, Management, and Sales Industries Construction, Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos, and Engineering Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Advanced Aquarium Technologies by 2x Get notified about new Director of Business Development jobs in Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia .
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