How to apply for Senior Manager, Business Development - West Coast

About Terracycle

TerraCycle is a global leader in recycling hard-to-recycle waste, turning items like ocean plastics into eco-friendly products. Its innovative Loop platform pioneers reusable packaging, making it a standout in sustainability. Working here means driving real environmental impact through creative, scalable solutions.

About the role

As Senior Manager of Business Development on the West Coast, you'll spearhead new partnerships with facilities, procurement, and sustainability stakeholders to expand TerraCycle's recycling programs. This role is crucial for growing the company's footprint in a key region, directly contributing to waste reduction and circular economy goals.

A typical day

A typical day might start with a virtual meeting with a potential partner's sustainability team, followed by analyzing waste stream data to tailor a proposal. Afternoon could involve a site visit to a facility to assess recycling needs, then preparing a partnership pitch for a retail chain. Evenings might include networking at a sustainability conference.

Who Terracycle is looking for

• Proven track record in B2B business development, ideally in waste management, recycling, or sustainability services.
• Strong network within West Coast industries (e.g., retail, manufacturing, facilities management) and ability to engage C-level stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with experience closing multi-year partnerships.
• Passionate about sustainability and knowledgeable about recycling technologies and circular economy principles.

Tips for this application

• Highlight specific partnerships you've closed that involved complex waste streams or sustainability initiatives.
• Quantify your impact: use metrics like revenue growth, waste diverted, or number of contracts signed.
• Tailor your resume to show experience with facility managers or procurement teams, as these are key stakeholders.
• Mention familiarity with TerraCycle's current programs (e.g., Zero Waste Boxes, Loop) and suggest potential partners.
• Include a brief note on why you're drawn to TerraCycle's mission, not just the role.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your success in developing partnerships that align with sustainability goals.', "Understanding of TerraCycle's unique business model and how you can drive growth on the West Coast.", 'Ability to navigate both corporate and environmental stakeholder interests.', "Specific examples of how you've turned waste challenges into business opportunities."]

Research before applying

• Study TerraCycle's current partnerships and identify gaps on the West Coast.
• Read about Loop's expansion and how it integrates with TerraCycle's recycling services.
• Review recent news articles or case studies on TerraCycle's impact (e.g., collaborations with major brands).
• Understand the competitive landscape: other recycling service providers and their West Coast presence.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How would you approach a large retailer to pitch a recycling program for hard-to-recycle items?
• Describe a time you overcame resistance from a potential partner who didn't see the value in sustainability.
• What metrics would you use to measure success in this role?
• How familiar are you with West Coast waste regulations and sustainability trends?
• Can you walk us through your process for identifying and prioritizing new business opportunities?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don't focus solely on sales numbers without connecting them to environmental impact.
• Avoid generic sustainability talk; show specific knowledge of TerraCycle's waste streams.
• Don't overlook the importance of facility and procurement stakeholders—they are key decision-makers.