Keel Labs began in 2017 as AlgiKnit, creating ocean-focused materials built from renewable resources.  In 2022, Keel Labs was established as a platform for innovation, broadening our vision for the potential of the ocean to accelerate our planet’s development towards a more sustainable future. Driven by the exploration of novel resources from the ocean, Keel Labs functions as a hub for the next generation of climate-focused solutions derived from nature.

So, though our name has changed, our mission remains the same: Keel Labs works at the nexus of design, science, and engineering to create impact-driven materials harnessing the power of the ocean. 

Director Business Development 

Keel Labs™ is a platform for innovation, broadening our vision for the potential of the ocean to accelerate our planet’s development towards a more sustainable future. Driven by the exploration of novel resources from the ocean, Keel Labs™ functions as a hub for the next generation of climate-focused solutions derived from nature.

Keel Labs is seeking a dynamic Director of Business Development based in our Morrisville, NC office to lead our partnership strategy and execution, with a strong emphasis on building and nurturing strategic brand relationships and supply-side partnerships. This role is ideal for a collaborative leader with experience creating growth funnels, developing networks, and managing partnerships that align with sustainable development goals.

Responsibilities

• Build and Strengthen Brand Relationships: Drive strategic engagement with brands and partners, establishing a robust funnel of opportunities to support product offerings, market expansion, and network growth for the fibers industry (fashion, home goods, automotive, CPG).
• Supply Side Development: Identify and cultivate relationships with partners throughout the supply chain, building a resilient network of sustainable resources and partners aligned with Keel Labs’ mission.
• Lead Business Development Initiatives: Mentor and guide the sales team, providing direction to ensure success in building and sustaining impactful partnerships.
• Strategic Partnership Management: Oversee negotiations, assess financial impacts, and manage long-term relationships, ensuring favorable terms and alignment with company goals.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, marketing, and operations to identify partnership opportunities that enhance product offerings, drive engagement, and align with company strategy.
• Market Research and Trend Analysis: Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and potential partners that support Keel Labs’ objectives.
• Performance Measurement and Reporting: Develop KPIs to measure sales initiative success, and provide regular performance updates to stakeholders on opportunities, challenges, and risks within the partnership landscape.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in Strategic Sales, Business Development, or a related field with a proven track record in building, managing, and scaling brand and supplier partnerships.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in developing and mentoring high-performance teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with a strategic, results-driven mindset.
• Strong cross-functional and collaborative abilities, with experience navigating multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.