VP, Business Development/Commercial Strategy

DESCRIPTION: KCD, Inc. is seeking an entrepreneurial, Vice President, Business Development & Commercial Strategy to join the team. Reporting to the CEO, this leader will manage the end-to-end business-development process across KCD, Inc.’s locations. A strong understanding of agency services, client needs, and the fashion, beauty, luxury, and lifestyle sectors is required. This position can be based in New York or London. Onsite four days per week is required.

RESPONSIBILITIES

·       Generate new business for KCD, Inc. and its offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, and Paris by identifying prospects, building a qualified pipeline, and managing opportunities from initial outreach through proposal, negotiation, and contract execution.

·       Develop and execute tailored sales strategies that position KCD’s communications, brand visibility, and integrated agency capabilities as solutions to prospective clients’ business objectives.

·       Research into industry, client, consumer, and communications trends to identify target sectors, decisionmakers, and revenue opportunities across KCD’s global markets.

·       Lead the full RFP and proposal process, coordinating relevant services including media relations, events, fashion shows, VIP, and brand partnerships to create compelling solutions aligned with prospective client needs.

·       Present pitches and proposals to senior stakeholders, negotiate fees, retainers, scopes of work, and commercial terms to secure profitable new business.

·       Partner with leadership across all locations to develop high-impact presentations and pitches, ensuring a coordinated and consistent approach throughout the business development process.

·       Maintain accurate pipeline activity, prospect communications, proposal status, and next steps; use emerging technologies to strengthen research, improve proposal development, support compliance checks, and increase sales efficiency.

QUALIFICATIONS

·       At least 10 years' industry experience within a PR, communications, creative, media, influencer marketing or brand partnership agency with expertise and a strong understanding of fashion, beauty and luxury brand positioning, consumer audiences and industry trends. 

·       At least 5 years’ experience selling advertising, brand partnerships, sponsorships, media and/or agency services

·       Experience taking ownership of the end-to-end RFP process, from initial receipt through final submission, in collaboration with relevant internal and external stakeholders

·       A proven record of generating new business, meeting revenue targets, and closing high-value commercial agreements.

·       Experience identifying prospects, building qualified sales pipelines, and managing opportunities from initial outreach through contract signature.

·       Ability to develop tailored proposals that connect PR, communications, and brand visibility to client objectives.

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce compelling pitches, proposals, and outreach.

·       Existing relationships with premium, luxury, or emerging fashion and beauty brands.

·       Familiarity with PR services, including media relations, influencer engagement, events, VIP, and brand collaborations.

·       Experience selling annual retainers, project-based campaigns, or integrated marketing services.

·       Knowledge of key industry events, fashion weeks, trade shows, and relevant media networks.

·       Experience creating commercial strategy, market positioning, or new service offerings.

·       Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, advertising or related field preferred.

·       Microsoft Office Suite.

·       French language a plus.