Business Development Manager - Powersports Na Ar

Position Summary

The Business Development Manager – Powersports NA AR is responsible for driving the strategic direction and profitable growth of the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) business across the Americas region. This role focuses on expanding the Aftermarket Replacement (AR) business while supporting some OE/OES opportunities.

The position works cross‑functionally with Product Development, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), and Gates AR teams, while directly engaging customers across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This role requires a strong combination of commercial leadership, market insight, and customer engagement.

• Lead development and execution of the Americas CVT strategy, with primary focus on AR channel growth and market expansion.
• Manage and grow key customer relationships, including distributors, kit suppliers, small OEMs, and race teams.
• Identify and drive new business opportunities, channel expansion, and market penetration strategies.
• Partner with Product Development and PLM teams to align product strategy with market trends and customer requirements.
• Provide voice‑of‑customer insights to support product roadmap development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities.
• Support race teams and sponsorship activities to enhance brand visibility and product performance credibility.
• Collaborate with regional and global teams to ensure alignment with broader CVT business objectives.
• Support commercial execution, including pricing strategy, forecasting, and key account performance tracking.

• Proven experience in business development, sales, or product management within the powersports, automotive, or related industries.
• Strong understanding of aftermarket channels, distribution networks, and customer dynamics.
• Knowledge of CVT systems, power transmission products, or similar mechanical systems preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute growth strategies in regional markets.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage customers, senior leadership, and cross‑functional teams.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, or related field (MBA preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in OE/OES or AR sales, business development, product management, or account management.
• Experience with in the Americas powersports or mobility market preferred.
• Proven leadership ability to drive sales growth and lead cross‑functional teams across the Americas.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute regional growth strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Strong understanding of OE and aftermarket distribution channels and go‑to‑market strategies.
• Working knowledge of CVT systems, power transmission products, and related sales processes.
• Ability to build and manage strategic customer relationships with a client‑focused approach.
• Experience with pipeline management, forecasting, and performance tracking.
• Understanding of manufacturing and supply chain impacts on regional business.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder influence skills.
• Proficiency in PowerPoint, Excel, and CRM tools.
• Strategic, data‑driven, and results‑oriented mindset.
• Adaptable, proactive, and highly collaborative team player.
• Domestic travel within the Americas up to 40% to support customers and Gates facilities.
• Occasional international travel (up to 10%) may be required.

Gates is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job‑related…