UNILIN Technologies , our intellectual property division, safeguards and licenses technologies developed by both Unilin and external partners. Due to increased international interest in innovative technologies and the need to effectively manage existing licensees, we are seeking an IP Business Development Manager to join our team in Wielsbeke .
Role Overview :
- As IP Business Development Manager, you report directly to the Sales and Marketing Director and will work closely together with the other Business Development Managers and Sales representatives, both in Belgium and abroad to ensure smooth day-to-day business operations.
- You will be responsible for exploring international business opportunities, initiate first contact with potential clients, facilitate deal closures, and nurture ongoing customer relationships. This role offers an invaluable opportunity to leverage patented technologies for commercial success. You will learn how to make business out of patented technologies and will be trained via learnings and on the job. A unique opportunity to learn by being active in the field.
- Given the pivotal role of intellectual property in business, you will be trained in negotiating with decision-makers (C-level or ownership) at international companies. You will take charge in this negotiation process and you will learn how to structure deals in a win/win scenario. One of your main goals will be realizing growth through closing new deals and expanding current partnerships by offering new patented technologies.
- Your responsibilities will also include attending customer meetings and industry events all over the world to gain insights into customer needs, address inquiries, and showcase our latest technologies. A keen interest in technical subjects and strong persuasion skills are prerequisites. Building and maintaining relationships, coupled with a deep understanding of market dynamics, our technologies, and their relevance to potential licensees, are vital aspects of this role.
- Because of your international client base, you will travel all over the world. This is definitely not a desk job. As part of a relatively small yet dynamic team at UNILIN Technologies, you will collaborate closely with international sales, patent, finance, and legal teams. Legal support will be provided for contract drafting, while close coordination with various technical and R&D departments will be necessary to facilitate the commercialization of new technologies into licensable assets.
WHO ARE YOU?
- Master’s degree (preferably in Law, Business Engineering, Civil Engineering, Economics or similar) with a first relevant (sales) experience.
- Strong interest in developing strategic insight into the IP business, key account management and IP sales processes.
- Excellent negotiation, stakeholder management and communication skills; able to understand and clearly explain contracts and patents to the client.
- Comfortable engaging with C-level stakeholders and adapting your style across different contexts and cultures.
- Affinity with technical products and motivated to translate (Unilin’s) technologies into business opportunities.
- Interest in macro-economic trends will be key to become successful in this role.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to connect the dots and perform under pressure.
- Proactive, hands-on and entrepreneurial attitude with a willingness to travel.
- Fluent in Dutch and English. Additional languages are a plus.
Unilin is a global reference in interior design and construction with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. Our floors, panels, insulation materials, and technologies can be found in the homes and workplaces of millions of people and public spaces around the world. Our brands Quick-Step, Pergo, and Moduleo probably ring a bell. Worldwide, around 7,900 employees work every day to push boundaries and innovate. Want to know more about our story? Be sure to check out our website.
