Director of Business Development

About the job

A Director of Business Development at Portico Benefit Services leads efforts to identify and cultivate new opportunities, deepen relationships with existing clients, and advance Portico’s mission to deliver holistic benefits and financial wellness solutions to those serving the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), related ministries, and other faith-based organizations. This requires the ability to develop a rapport with key leaders and provide solutions that will help these organizations meet their goals.

The ideal candidate drives Portico’s market expansion, strengthens strategic partnerships, and enhances distribution across the faith-based and employer benefits landscape. This position requires a blend of strategic insight, relationship management, and data-informed decision-making to increase Portico’s reach and impact. Success depends on close collaboration with Brand and Customer Engagement, Product, and Benefits Administration teams to ensure seamless delivery of value to current and prospective partners.

Key Responsibilities

Market Growth and Business Development

• Develop and execute strategic plans to expand Portico’s presence in existing and adjacent markets.
• Identify and qualify new opportunities across employer, ministry, and faith-based organizations.
• Build and manage a robust pipeline of opportunities, ensuring consistent follow-up and conversion.
• Create persuasive proposals and presentations that demonstrate Portico’s value proposition.
• Manage objections effectively, negotiating to positive outcomes using consultative approaches.
• Collaborate with the VP of Business Development to define performance metrics and market targets.

Client and Partner Relationship Management

• Cultivate trusted, mission-aligned relationships with key partners, employers, and stakeholders.
• Lead client engagements that clearly communicate Portico’s value in health, retirement, and financial wellness.
• Cross-sell new products and services to enhance existing relationships.
• Partner with Brand & Customer Engagement and Product teams to align messaging and offerings with client needs.
• Represent Portico at industry events, conferences, and partner forums to enhance visibility and thought leadership.

Sales Strategy and Execution

• Develop tailored proposals and communications that reflect Portico’s mission and differentiators.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure smooth onboarding and renewal experiences.
• Leverage data and analytics to track performance, evaluate success, and refine go-to-market strategies.

Collaboration and Leadership

• Work cross-functionally with Brand and Customer Engagement, Product, and Benefits Administration teams to deliver cohesive client solutions.
• Contribute to the broader business development strategy, ensuring alignment with Portico’s Five Diamond Strategy and Service Model 2.0.
• Serve as a role model for mission-driven engagement, ethical business practices, and service excellence.
• Understand and comply with all of Portico’s Governance, Risk, and Compliance standards (e.g., internal controls, regulatory compliance, and policy compliance).

Qualifications

• Ability to learn quickly and succeed in “first time” situations.
• Strong interpersonal savvy, team, and relationship skills required for interactions with customers.
• Proven success in building strategic relationships and managing complex client portfolios.
• Strong financial and analytical skills with the ability to connect business outcomes to mission impact.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-level presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead initiatives from concept to execution and collaborate across departments.
• Proficiency in Customer Relationship Management platforms and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to travel periodically for client meetings, conferences, and business development activities.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or related field required
• Advanced degree preferred.

Experience

• 8+ years of experience in business development, sales, or account management
• Employee benefits, financial services, wellness or healthcare experience ideal.

Starting Pay Range: $136,000 – 176,000 + 15% incentive target

Benefits Summary: Portico offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes premiums paid for health care coverage, 10% employer retirement contribution, and competitive time off and wellness benefits.