Business Development Associate Job Details Job Location Corporate Office - Morristown, NJ Position Type Full Time Description EXCITING NEW ROLE AT OUR MORRISTOWN CORPORATE OFFICE WORK IN ONE OF THE BEST CITIES TO LIVE IN THE UNITED STATES SUMMARY DUTIES TheBusiness Development Associateis responsible for identifying potential business growth opportunities for Villa Restaurant Group (VRG), primarily focusing on domestic restaurant airport opportunities. Reporting to the Director of Business Development, this position will also work closely with existing and potential business partners, Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) partners, external stakeholders, and identify new business groups to work with VRG. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES + The primary responsibility of this position is to establish and maintain our quality presence in the airport restaurant space and contribute toward the growth of our overall travel hospitality business. This individual must establish working relationships with brand partners, network with airport developers, Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise groups (ACDBE), and develop a deep understanding of these fields. + This position will become familiar with upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP) releases; review and summarize key elements of RFPs; and participate in onsite tours. Additionally, they will assist with the support and preparation of RFPs, including managing outsourced firms, interacting with other departments to obtain information, find sustainable and charitable local community initiatives to get involved with, and explore Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives designed to develop community involvement and interest. + To be effective, the Business Development Associate will transition into researching and connecting with local, regional, and national brands. Identify and develop relationships with strategic business partners and match with potential site opportunities. + This individual will manage communications with joint venture partners and assist with obtaining documentation for filings, licenses, permits, coordinating meetings, and identifying new potential partners. + This position will interact with the airport operations teams and manage the sublease required operational process: gather information for quarterly business status reports, transaction counts, gross sales, employee sales, year-end accounting reports, etc. for accuracy and timely reporting. In addition, they will be tasked with developing a checklist for each airport location to manage this process and other related procedures. + Gain understanding and experience with government, lobbyists, airport authorities, and partnerships such as the Port Authority and Greater Orlando Airport Authority. + Develop and sustain company relationships through market-facing activities such as active engagement in relevant industry organizations, professional associations, and conferences. Create a calendar of industry conferences, such as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), Airport Experience News (AXN), Airports Council International (ACI), and Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC). + This individual will also maintain lease/franchise/license compliance reports, assist with lease administration needs, software upkeep, compile internal business data, and prepare lease summaries for new and renewing agreements. + Working with the Business Development team, the Business Development Associate will update presentations, create new branding materials or proposals, email communications, lease information, paperwork, forming entities, etc. + Grow awareness of the company brand and its services with existing and new relationships through meetings, presentations, business networking and business social events. + Stay aware of current and longer-term market trends. Apply a thorough understanding of relevant industries to shape sales and business development strategies. EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: + Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to interpret and summarize data. + Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with business partners and stakeholders. + Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. + Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. + Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with CRM tools or similar software. + Prior experience in business development, sales, or a related field is a plus. + Passion for growth, innovation, and expanding brand presence within the travel or hospitality industry. IND1