Overview Sapphire AG is a technology startup that develops advanced aquatic metrology solutions for measurement of rate, quality, reporting, and telemetry. Our product portfolio is ready for general market release. We are seeking a hands-on Business Development Manager to lead sales, distribution, and field operations. Annual salary range of $90,000 to $140,000 Potential for sales and bonus compensation tied to performance

Summary of Functions:

The Business Development Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, performance, and development of the sales and installation teams while driving commercial growth across Agriculture, Utility, Industrial, Governmental, and Municipal water resource markets. The Business Development Manager will operate with clear decision-making authority and ownership of business outcomes. The role is responsible for developing product positioning and messaging, executing marketing and sales strategies, and capturing market opportunities to support future growth. Several consultants will assist through 2026 by transitioning their team and responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the daily activities, performance, and professional development of the sales and installation teams.
• Build, train, and lead a high-performing sales and support organization capable of scaling with company growth.

Establish and expand sales and distribution channels throughout the San Joaquin Valley and California. Develop production messaging, market positioning, and go-to-market strategies for hardware, software, and SaaS-based solutions. Drive sales growth through strategic planning, business development, and customer engagement. Operate independently with executive-level accountability and minimal day-to-day direction. Build trust and maintain strong relationships with technical and business stakeholders across the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through market research, networking, prospecting, and participating in industry trade shows.
• Update and enhance marketing collateral and product positioning, including SaaS offerings through the Azure portal platform.
• Develop and manage strategic partnerships for product distribution, installation services, and long-term collaboration within the water-resource industry.
• Execute go-to-market strategies targeting Agricultural, Utility, Industrial, Governmental, and Municipal sectors.
• Collaborate closely with the product development team to ensure products and services align with customer needs and market demand.
• Prepare and present monthly management reports covering market trends, sales pipeline activity, business opportunities, and growth sectors during management reviews.
• Oversee installation coordination and post-sale support to ensure high customer satisfaction and long-term retention.
• Travel extensively throughout the San Joaquin Valley and greater California to develop relationships, close business opportunities, and establish distribution networks.
• Participate in occasional travel outside California as needed.
• Maintain a home-base territory within the Fresno-to-Bakersfield, California region.

Qualifications:

• Proven track record of success in sales leadership, business development, or general management within agriculture technology, water infrastructure, industrial process control, or other related B2B markets.
• Minimum of six (6) years of experience in product sales and marketing, involving agricultural equipment, water management systems, sensors, software platforms, or related technologies.
• Demonstrated ownership and management of a product line or portfolio exceeding $10 million in annual revenue.
• Experience building and managing sales teams and distribution networks, preferably within California or the Western United States.
• Strong understanding of agricultural water use, irrigation systems, water utilities, or industrial water management practices.
• Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Food Safety Requirements/Responsibilities:

Compliance with all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Food Safety, and General Safety rules and regulations. Compliance with local, state, federal, and corporate food safety regulatory standards as well as company quality standards provided by facility, regional, and corporate quality authorities. Knowledge of Setton Pistachio's Food Safety Management System and its application in a processing environment.

Organization Relationships:

• Reports to the Senior Director of Engineering & Maintenance.

Physical Demands:

Operate a company vehicle, including pick-up trucks. Physically lift up to 45 pounds as needed. Walk in agricultural fields and orchards and work in varying outdoor conditions. Sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers for extended periods while operating computers, mobile devices, and office equipment.

Work Environment:

Ability to work in office and agricultural field environments. Travel regularly throughout assigned territories. Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices and all applicable safety requirements while performing job duties.

Pay:

$90,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Vision insurance Ability to

Commute:

Terra Bella, CA 93270 (Required)

Work Location:

In person