Business Development Manager

About Vessev

Vessev is creating a new class of marine transport through hydrofoiling electric vessels designed to be better for people and the planet. The company builds boats that rise above the water using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion, with design and manufacturing based in Aotearoa. With strong momentum, rising global interest, and major growth ahead, the team is seeking a driven Business Development Manager to help shape the next phase of expansion.

This is a distinctive chance to join a New Zealand startup operating in a fast-growing category. The position offers significant room to shape the role and make a meaningful mark.

Role overview

This is a practical, hands-on business development position focused on expanding markets from the front line. As part of the Growth Team, you will work closely with the Director of Business Development to influence how the company expands by sector, geography, and partnership channel.

The role is aimed at building go-to-market momentum, growing the early sales pipeline, and supporting commercial conversations through to final close. The work will be varied and fast-moving, ranging from first customer outreach to helping progress complex multi-vessel opportunities.

Key responsibilities

In this role, you will contribute to market analysis, prospecting, lead qualification, relationship building, CRM hygiene, customer follow-up, and support for broader go-to-market activity.

You will also collaborate across Product and Marketing, help prepare sales and pitch materials, support roadshows, and assist with event planning and logistics.

Detailed responsibilities

• Spot emerging market trends and identify where expansion opportunities exist.
• Reach out to newly identified prospects and support outbound lead generation.
• Help build and grow the sales pipeline as the company scales.
• Screen incoming leads, assess fit, and prioritise them for follow-up.
• Manage early-stage lead conversations and share the right product information and specifications.
• Carry out route and operational modelling when needed.
• Nurture relationships with prospects who are not yet ready to commit.
• Support existing and future customers from reservation through to vessel delivery, including options capture, build progress updates, and coordination of site visits.
• Maintain accurate pipeline records and track progress in the CRM.
• Improve data quality and reporting discipline across the CRM.
• Translate customer conversations into feedback that can inform product development.
• Help identify and secure new commercial opportunities.
• Work with Product and Marketing on collateral, pitch decks, and sales resources.
• Assist with roadshows, including planning and operational coordination.

What we’re looking for

The company does not require deep expertise in marine transport, hydrofoiling, or electric vessels. What matters most is a highly motivated person who takes ownership, adapts quickly, and stays effective in a startup environment where priorities can change rapidly.

The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, a thoughtful listener, and someone who builds trust easily through empathy and flexibility. Resilience, patience, persistence, and the ability to learn from rejection are all important for success in this role.

Candidate profile

• 3 to 6 years of experience in business development or sales.
• A strong track record of finding and developing sales opportunities.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Curiosity and genuine interest in learning the technology and products.
• A collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn.
• Strong belief in the mission and excitement about the company’s future.
• A hardworking, hands-on attitude and willingness to take on whatever needs doing.
• Passion for the ocean and waterways.

Bonus experience

• Experience working in or across international markets.
• Exposure to boating or the marine industry.
• Experience negotiating commercial terms.
• Understanding of electric vehicles and related technology.

About the team and culture

The company aims to create positive change through cleaner air, better travel, and stronger connections with nature and people. Its hydrofoiling electric vessels can use up to 90% less energy than conventional boats, opening up new possibilities for water transport.

The business is supported by leading investors, including Blackbird Ventures, and the team includes people with backgrounds from the America’s Cup, Rocket Lab, Halter, Apple, and climate-focused startups.

The workplace is office-first rather than office-only. The team values in-person collaboration while still trusting people to do the right thing and recognising that personal situations vary.

Why people enjoy working here

• The opportunity to help build something genuinely different, both in product and workplace culture.
• Work that contributes to meaningful long-term impact.
• A collaborative team made up of capable and supportive people.
• 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers and 4 weeks for secondary caregivers, subject to conditions.
• Competitive pay that reflects the value of the work.
• Water-based work experiences, including time on the vessels and offices located beside the Tamaki River.
• A workplace that naturally attracts people who love boating, sailing, surfing, foiling, kiteboarding, and time on the water.

Application instructions

Applicants are asked to submit a CV along with a brief cover letter explaining who they are and why the position feels like a strong fit.

The company also encourages people from under-represented groups to apply even if they do not meet every requirement, as capability and potential are valued over perfect matches.

Additional information

This role is based in Auckland, New Zealand, and is structured as a full-time onsite position.

No vacancy count, salary amount, start date, or application deadline was specified.