Application Guide
How to Apply for Director of Business Development, Western US
at Via Transporation
🏢 About Via Transporation
Via Transportation is unique in transforming public and private transport systems into efficient, affordable, and sustainable networks using cutting-edge software, rather than just being a ride-sharing service. They partner directly with cities, transit agencies, and corporations to reimagine mobility infrastructure, making this role ideal for someone passionate about public-private partnerships and tech-driven social impact.
About This Role
As Director of Business Development for the Western US, you'll be responsible for identifying and building revenue-generating partnerships across public and private sectors, from city governments to corporate clients. This role involves full-cycle sales strategy, developing data-driven business cases for Via's platform, and serving as the 'face of Via' through thought leadership and local marketing in the mobility space.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve researching prospective partners in the Western US market, analyzing data to build business cases for Via's platform, and conducting consultative sales calls with city officials or private-sector leaders. You could also spend time developing regional transit plans, preparing for a conference presentation, or collaborating with internal teams to refine sales strategies for your territory.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Via Transporation Is Looking For
- 10+ years in client-facing roles with proven success in sales, business development, or consulting, preferably with public sector experience (e.g., working with transit agencies, municipal governments, or public-private partnerships).
- A consultative sales professional who excels at educating clients, developing regional transit plans, and using data to build compelling narratives about funding mechanisms and ROI.
- Strong analytical skills to navigate complex buying landscapes in the Western US market, with the ability to research and tailor strategies for diverse verticals like public transit, corporate shuttles, or university transportation.
- A natural thought leader comfortable speaking at conferences, leading local marketing campaigns, and championing Via's mission while building durable relationships with elected officials and business leaders.
📝 Tips for Applying to Via Transporation
Highlight specific experience with public sector or government sales in your resume, such as contracts with city transit departments or partnerships with municipal agencies in the Western US.
Quantify your achievements in business development with metrics like revenue growth, partnership deals closed, or market expansion in territories similar to the Western US.
Tailor your application to mention Via's specific technology (e.g., their software platform for transit networks) and how you've used data-driven approaches in past roles to build business cases.
Demonstrate knowledge of mobility industry trends in the Western US, such as sustainable transport initiatives or public transit challenges in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle.
Showcase thought leadership examples, like conference speaking engagements or published articles on mobility, to align with Via's emphasis on being the 'face of the company.'
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your experience with consultative sales and building durable relationships in the public sector, citing specific examples of working with elected officials or government agencies.', 'Highlight your ability to use data and analytics to develop compelling business cases for technology platforms, referencing past successes in driving revenue through strategic partnerships.', "Explain your passion for sustainable mobility and how you've contributed to transforming transport systems, aligning with Via's mission of efficient and affordable networks.", "Mention your familiarity with the Western US market, including any insights on regional transit challenges or opportunities for Via's platform expansion."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Study Via's current partnerships in the Western US, such as deals with cities or transit agencies, to understand their market presence and tailor your application.
- → Research Via's technology platform and software solutions, focusing on how they integrate with existing transit systems to demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
- → Explore mobility trends and challenges in the Western US, including public transit initiatives, sustainability goals, and funding opportunities at the state or city level.
- → Review Via's thought leadership content, like blog posts or conference talks, to align your approach with their mission and messaging in the industry.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with a generic sales resume that doesn't highlight public sector or government experience, as this role prioritizes work with elected officials and transit agencies.
- Failing to mention specific achievements in business development or consultative sales, such as revenue targets met or partnerships built, which are critical for a director-level role.
- Overlooking the importance of data-driven narratives in your application, as Via emphasizes using analytics to build compelling cases for their platform.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Via Transporation!