Pearson is an international media company with market-leading businesses in education, business information and consumer publishing. Pearson's education business represents about two-thirds of the company, and Penguin publishing and the Financial Times make up the balance. With more than 30,000 employees based in 60 countries, we are a family of businesses that draws on common assets, processes and shares a common purpose: to help our customers live and learn.

Pearson Learning Solutions is the industry leader in providing custom solutions. Our products and services include high quality content, editorial expertise, award-winning textbook designs, on demand database publishing, and innovative media solutions.

Pearson is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D, and a member of E-Verify.

The Director of Business Development Professional Markets (DBDPM)) is responsible for pursuing new business opportunities in the Professional, Corporate and Association channel focused on Custom projects to meet the needs of the partner within areas specified. In addition to driving sales for PLS in this channel this individual will also be responsible for identifying partnerships that will help build up our offering and drive revenue growth. The DBDPM may be tasked to explore opportunities in the government channel, although initially this will not be a focus of effort. This DBDPM is expected to work closely with sister company publishing teams on new business development, sign and deliver new custom and possibly trade/retail titles, find and manage large projects, launch new and backlist titles, and meet or exceed sales objectives of an assigned territory. The DBDPM is accountable for overall responsibility of assigned accounts and prospects, ensuring high quality service, and customer satisfaction.

This individual is expected to sign and deliver new custom projects, manage large initiatives, launch new and backlist titles, meet or exceed assigned sales and profit targets. Develop and maintain relationships with client personnel through formal and informal interactions.

Project types can include co-publishing and/or licensed publishing with professional organizations and licensed properties. It may also include custom branding and other retail and trade focused customization.

Lead the account team internally, providing high level oversight, communicating client needs, and serving as the escalation point. Work with clients to develop and implement mutually beneficial programs. Work closely with sister companies publishing and sales teams to expand their sales reach into the professional and possibly trade/retail channels. Prospect extensively ensuring that new prospects are being added to the pipeline on a consistent basis.
Manage complex solution sales within purchasing cycle and moving the sale through the entire sales process from initial contact, needs analysis, scoping, profit and loss assessment, proposal generation, contract negotiations and contract close. Identify new or additional partners and services that could benefit clients, and increase channel revenue. Continually learning about new products, improving selling skills and stay informed of current industry trends. Keeping abreast of competition, competitive issues and products. Overall ability to be creative and flexible.

Attending and participating in sales meetings, product seminars and trade shows as needed.
Leading contract negotiations, preparing written presentations and reports. Defining and executing territory sales plans. Develop positive relationships with other employees in Marketing, Product Support, Editorial and other departments and/or sister companies as needed to develop revenue opportunities for Pearson Education.

Financial responsibilities: P&L and pricing development and approval for projects with gross margin targets
Supervisory responsibilities (direct and indirect):
This position has no direct reports, however, the DBDPM is required to work successfully with peers, business managers, publishing teams, sister company sales reps, the development team, subject matter experts, and editors to assist with the strategy, vision, direction, and management of projects.

3-5 years of strategic alliance or business development experience in the education and/or professional markets focusing on custom solutions required. Experience within the publishing industry, preferably in sales or acquisitions, is a plus. Government, national account or professional account management a plus.

A College degree in a business-related discipline or equivalent years of education and successful work experience preferred.

Ability to work in a dynamic, entrepreneurial organization, in both a team and independent environment. Willingness to challenge the status quo to drive significant increases in high margin, recurring revenue. Proven ability to negotiate and close complex deals. Proven ability in project management and in managing client relationships effectively. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to handle multiple client projects within aggressive timeframes is essential. Previous experience managing annual revenue of at least $2M required. Must be willing to travel as needed to meet with clients, attend sales conferences and training, etc.

If you are interested in applying for this position and you meet the minimum qualifications for the opening, please submit your resume to our paperless, on-line database by going to www.pearsoned.com and complete the Online Response Form. Please note: No resumes will be accepted via the mail, fax or walk-in. All applicants must submit their interest in a specific position by applying via the Online Response Form no later than January 4, 2010.

To apply, click here.