Welcome To Support Ontario Youth - Applying For The Business Development Specialist Position

Job Summary

Reporting to the Director of Partnerships and Stakeholder Relations, this role is responsible for driving measurable growth in employer participation in our programs and apprenticeship services.

This sales-focused, employer-facing role combines outbound sales with strategic relationship development to expand SOY’s employer network across targeted sectors and geographic regions, positioning our skilled trades programs as practical workforce solutions.

We are seeking a confident and results-oriented relationship builder who is comfortable initiating conversations with business owners and industry leaders and motivated by converting employer interest into active participation. The Specialist balances new employer acquisition with ongoing relationship development, ensuring strong, sustained employer engagement over time and keeping SOY top of mind as a skilled trades workforce resource. Success in this role is defined by employer growth, effective conversion, and continued participation.

Must be a commutable distance to our Etobicoke Head Office.

Key Responsibilities

Developing and implementing strategic relationship management plans for assigned business partners.
Conducting regular meetings and communication with partners to discuss performance, identify needs, and ensure alignment with company objectives.
Serving as the primary point of contact for partner inquiries, escalating complex issues to appropriate internal teams (e.g., Legal, Operations, Sales).
Monitoring partner satisfaction through surveys, feedback sessions, and ongoing dialogue.
Identifying and pursuing opportunities to expand business relationships and generate new revenue streams within existing partnerships.
Working closely with sales and marketing teams to develop collaborative campaigns and initiatives that benefit both the company and its partners.
Maintaining accurate records of all partner interactions and agreements in our CRM system (Salesforce).
Ensuring compliance with all relevant Canadian laws, regulations, and company policies related to business dealings and contract management.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution in Canada.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a relationship management, account management, or business development role within a Canadian business environment.
Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders at all levels.
Excellent communication (written and verbal) skills in English; fluency in French is an asset.
Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Education & Experience

Post-secondary education in Business, Marketing, Human Resources, or related field, or equivalent experience.
3–5 years of experience in Business development, B2B sales, Employer recruitment, management and Workforce development outreach
Demonstrated success in outbound sales and closing.
Experience in skilled trades or apprenticeship pathways is an asset but not required.
Experience in not-for-profit environments is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Confident and professional communicator, comfortable initiating outreach to business owners and industry leaders.
Demonstrated experience in outbound sales, employer engagement, or business development.
Results-oriented and accountable for meeting defined employer growth targets.
Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to establish credibility across diverse industry sectors.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to track employer outreach and engagement effectively.
Able to work independently while collaborating effectively with internal teams.
Professional, adaptable, and solutions-focused in a dynamic environment.
Knowledge of skilled trades and Ontario Apprenticeship programs is an asset.
Intermediate level skills with technology (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint), adapts well to new technologies (i.e., databases, learning management systems, etc.).

Requirements

Must be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant Ontario legislation and regulations.
Ability to accommodate occasional evening commitments related to employer or apprentice engagement.
Valid G Driver’s license, reliable vehicle and valid insurance.
Ability to travel within Ontario, including occasional overnight stays.
Ability to lift and carry equipment and supplies up to 20 lbs independently.

Salary: $70,200

How to apply:

Attach a detailed cover letter and resume to be considered for this role.
Assessment must be completed to be considered for this role. Please copy and paste this link: https://jbtmz.me/s/?e=3Roqb4Fd

We will ONLY be in touch with candidates who qualify for the position and complete the assessment. We wish all applicants the best of luck.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible workplace. In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all stages of the hiring process.

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