Application Guide

How to Apply for Business Development Associate

at Tomra

🏢 About Tomra

Tomra is a global leader in reverse vending and resource recovery systems, driving the transition to a circular economy. Working here means contributing to a mission that reduces waste and optimizes resource use, with innovative technology and a strong commitment to sustainability. The company's Australian operations are expanding, offering a dynamic environment where your work directly impacts local communities and the environment.

About This Role

As a Business Development Associate, you'll be the frontline driver of volume into Tomra's Collection Depots across Sydney, generating leads through cold calling, building long-term partnerships, and closing opportunities. This role is impactful because you're not just selling a service; you're enabling a circular economy by increasing recycling rates and reducing waste, while collaborating with diverse stakeholders like local governments and charities.

💡 A Day in the Life

Start the day reviewing CRM pipeline and planning cold calls to potential business partners. Mid-morning, visit a local council to discuss a new partnership, then head to a depot to check on operations. Afternoon is spent following up on leads, closing deals, and updating sales reports for the Sales Team Manager.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for Tomra

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Tomra Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in B2B sales, especially cold calling and closing deals in a fast-paced environment, with a hunter mindset.
  • Excellent relationship-building skills, comfortable engaging with councils, charities, and community groups to foster partnerships.
  • Highly organized and data-driven, with hands-on CRM experience (e.g., Salesforce) and ability to track KPIs and pipeline progress.
  • Self-motivated and mobile, with a valid driver's license and vehicle to travel across Sydney for client meetings and depot visits.

📝 Tips for Applying to Tomra

1

Highlight specific cold calling and closing metrics from previous roles (e.g., 'Increased leads by 30% in Q1 through targeted outreach').

2

Tailor your resume to show experience with diverse stakeholders like local governments or non-profits, not just corporate clients.

3

Mention any familiarity with sustainability or recycling industries, even if indirect, to show alignment with Tomra's mission.

4

Include a brief example of how you used CRM data to refine sales strategy and improve conversion rates.

5

Address your willingness to travel and reliable vehicle access upfront to reassure the hiring manager.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for sustainability and how the role aligns with Tomra's circular economy mission.", 'Proven ability to generate leads and close deals, with specific numbers or examples.', 'Experience building long-term relationships with community stakeholders, such as charities or local councils.', 'Your proficiency with CRM systems and data-driven sales management.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Understand Tomra's reverse vending technology and how it supports container deposit schemes in Australia.
  • → Research the specific Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) in New South Wales and Tomra's role in it.
  • → Look into Tomra's sustainability reports and recent news about depot expansions or partnerships.
  • → Familiarize yourself with Tomra's competitors in the Australian recycling space (e.g., Envirobank, Return and Earn).

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your cold calling approach and how you handle rejection to stay motivated.
2 How would you build a partnership with a local charity to drive depot volume?
3 Walk us through how you manage your sales pipeline and report progress using CRM.
4 Tell us about a time you had to adapt your sales strategy to different stakeholder types (e.g., government vs. business).
5 How do you prioritize leads and allocate time across Sydney's territory?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not showing specific sales metrics or results – vague claims like 'good at sales' won't stand out.
  • Ignoring the stakeholder diversity – focusing only on corporate sales misses the community partnership aspect.
  • Underestimating the travel requirement – failing to mention vehicle access or willingness to travel can be a dealbreaker.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Tomra!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →