Business Development Manager
At Vessev, we’re defining a new category of marine transport: hydrofoiling electric vessels that are genuinely better for people and the planet. Our boats fly above the water using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion, all designed and built here in Aotearoa.
With strong momentum, global demand, and major scaling ahead, we’re looking for a highly motivated Business Development Manager to support us in this next big phase of growth.
This is a rare opportunity to join a New Zealand start up operating in a rapidly expanding space. There’s so much scope to make this role your own, and we want you to create something you’re insanely proud of.
The role
This is a hands-on, business development role where you’ll support market expansion from the front. As an integral part of our Growth Team you’ll work directly with the Director of Business Development to help shape how Vessev grows, sector by sector, region by region, and partner by partner.
You’ll be focused on increasing our go to market momentum, growing our early stage sales pipeline, and supporting commercial discussions through to closure. No two days will look the same. One day you’ll be initiating first customer engagements, the next you may be helping to close a multi-vessel deal.
What you’ll be doing
Market analysis and lead generation/prospecting- Identifying new trends and market expansion opportunities.
- Managing outreach to newly identified prospects.
- Building Vessev’s sales pipeline as we scale.
- Conducting early screening of new leads through to qualification and ranking.
- Managing early lead engagement.
- Providing relevant product collateral and product specs.
- Conducting route and operational modelling.
- Account nurturing – communicating with potential clients even if they aren't ready to buy today.
- Account management – supporting customers from signed reservations to vessel delivery including options capture, build updates and co-ordinating site visits.
- Ensuring excellent pipeline management and tracking progress in our CRM.
- Driving lead and reporting hygiene in our CRM.
- Shaping customer engagement into direct product feedback for our product team.
- Supporting the sourcing and securing of new commercial opportunities.
- Collaborating cross functionally with the Product and Marketing teams on collateral development, pitch materials, sales resources etc.
- Supporting roadshows event planning and logistics.
About you
You don’t need to be an expert in marine, hydrofoiling, or electric transport. What matters most is that you’re passionate, highly motivated, and someone who takes ownership of their work. You’re extremely flexible, and will thrive in a startup environment where things are constantly evolving.
You’re an excellent communicator, great listener, and people-person with a knack for establishing rapport through empathy and adaptability. You’re also very resilient, can learn from rejection, and are willing to be patient and persistent when it matters.
We’re looking for someone with- 3-6 years in business development or sales
- A great reputation for sourcing and nurturing sales opportunities.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- A natural curiosity and keen interest in understanding our technology and products.
- A collaborative, can-do approach and hunger to learn.
- A deep belief in the mission, and excitement about what Vessev can become.
- A strong work ethic and a can-do attitude – we all roll up our sleeves, and no job's too big or small.
- A passion for the ocean and our waterways
- Experience working in or across international markets.
- Experience and understanding of boating or the marine industry
- Experience negotiating commercial terms
- Understanding of electric vehicles and technology
About us
We’re here to set a better world in motion – cleaner air, better commutes, and deeper connections with nature and each other. Our hydrofoiling electric vessels use up to 90% less energy than traditional boats, unlocking entirely new opportunities.
We’re backed by top-tier investors including Blackbird Ventures, and our team includes talent from the America’s Cup, Rocket Lab, Halter, Apple, and leading climate startups.
We’re office-first but not office-only. We believe in building together, in person, where the real magic happens. That said, we trust our team to do what’s right and we know life isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Why our people love Vessev- We’re building something different – from how we move on the water to the kind of team and workplace we’re creating.
- The chance to work on technology that can drive real, lasting impact in the world.
- A team of exceptional and collaborative humans.
- 20 weeks fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers, and 4 weeks for secondary (conditions apply).
- Competitive salaries that reflect the value of the work.
- Being on the water is part of our job – from trips on our vessels to our offices that border the Tamaki River.
- And if the water’s where you want to be, you’ll be in good company. You’ll find no shortage of boaters, beach goers, sailors, foilers, surfers, and kiteboarders here.
Apply now
To apply, send us your CV and a short cover letter that gives us a sense of who you are and why this role feels like the right fit.
Research shows that women and other under-represented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement, even though they could be an excellent fit. If you see yourself doing great work here but don’t tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you.We’re building a team where everyone has the chance to do their best work.