Development Associate jobs in Saskatchewan

Overview

We are looking for a relationship-driven Business Development Specialist to help grow our business by identifying new opportunities and building strong client relationships.

The Business Development Specialist reports directly to the Director of Growth and plays a critical role as the first point of contact for prospective zu clients. This position is responsible for identifying, pursuing, and closing new business opportunities that lead to long-term client relationships. Focusing on experience design and website/web application development, the Business Development Specialist will uncover strategic opportunities, develop and nurture leads, and ultimately convert them into successful projects with enduring value for both zu and our clients.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with people, uncovering business challenges, and helping organizations find innovative digital solutions. You'll work closely with our leadership, strategy, design, and development teams to bring meaningful opportunities to life.

Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and close new business opportunities in experience design, website design, and web application development.
• Research target markets and industry trends to build a pipeline of qualified leads.
• Conduct outbound prospecting campaigns and respond to inbound leads to drive interest and conversions.
• Develop strong relationships with key decision-makers at prospective client organizations.
• Present zu’s services and capabilities with clarity and strategic relevance through proposals, meetings, and pitches.
• Collaborate with the Director of Growth and Strategy to shape client acquisition strategies and go-to-market plans.
• Analyze potential business deals by assessing client needs, market positioning, budget alignment, and long-term value.
• Work closely with zu’s Accounts and Strategy teams to ensure smooth transitions from opportunity to engagement.
• Develop and negotiate contracts and ensure alignment with zu’s operational processes and financial goals.
• Represent zu with professionalism and enthusiasm at industry events, networking opportunities, and virtual/in-person meetings.
• Maintain up-to-date CRM records and forecasting accuracy across active and prospective opportunities.
• Uphold the confidentiality and integrity of zu’s business practices and client relationships.

Qualifications

• Degree in business, marketing, economics, or a related field; 5+ years of proven success in a business development or strategic sales role.
• Demonstrated success in sourcing, developing, and closing business in digital services, ideally in agency, consulting, or design/tech-driven environments.
• Excellent research, analytical, and strategic thinking skills with the ability to understand industry shifts and market opportunities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills - able to craft compelling stories and confidently convey ideas to clients.
• Experienced in negotiating deals, handling objections, and closing long-term engagements.
• Proficient in developing outbound lead generation strategies and executing them effectively.
• Comfortable navigating CRM systems, sales forecasting, and data-informed decision making.
• Team-oriented, adaptable, and motivated to work across cross-functional teams including strategy, design, and development.
• Technologically savvy with a strong grasp of digital ecosystems, including user-centered design,
• Proficient with Google Sheets, Docs, Keynote and Hubspot platforms

If you're motivated by building relationships, creating opportunities, and helping organizations achieve their goals, we'd love to hear from you.

Pay: $80,000.00-$100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• On-site parking
• Vision care

Location:

• Saskatoon, SK S7K 1P2 (required)

Work Location: In person