Business Development Manager

Company Description Makoto-Ya is Singapore's leading importer, exporter, and wholesaler of Japanese food and beverages, serving customers since 1992. The company emphasizes sincerity, quality, and passion in both products and services, and has grown from distributing two products to over 1,000 items today. Makoto-Ya supplies leading hotels, restaurants, hypermarkets, supermarkets, retail stores, and international markets, sourcing directly from Japan to offer the latest products at competitive prices. With advanced distribution, delivery, and stock management systems, the company ensures product freshness, efficiency, and flexible ordering to meet diverse customer needs. Makoto-Ya's commitment to excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards, including the 2010 Successful Entrepreneur Award and the 2011 Singapore Brands Award.
Role Description The Business Development Manager is a full-time, on-site role based in Singapore. This role is responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, expanding Makoto-Ya's customer base across hospitality, retail, and export segments, and strengthening existing client relationships. Day-to-day tasks include researching market trends, building and managing pipelines, conducting sales presentations, negotiating contracts, and coordinating with internal teams to ensure smooth onboarding and service delivery. The Business Development Manager will collaborate closely with sales, marketing, operations, and supply chain to align business strategies with company goals, drive revenue growth, and promote Makoto-Ya's portfolio of Japanese food and beverage products. The role also involves monitoring performance metrics, preparing reports, and recommending initiatives to improve market presence and customer satisfaction.
Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development, sales, or account management, preferably in FMCG, food and beverage, or distribution sectors.
• Strong skills in market research, opportunity analysis, and strategic planning to identify and prioritize growth areas.
• Demonstrated ability in relationship management, stakeholder engagement, and customer service for B2B clients.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence decision-makers and close deals.
• Solid organizational, pipeline management, and time management skills, with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Comfort working with CRM tools, sales reporting, and basic data analysis to track performance and inform decisions.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience in or strong interest in Japanese food and beverage products and the hospitality or retail industry is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, with a proactive and results-oriented mindset.