At GF, we see our company as a forward-thinking leader in our field. Since 1802, we have been embracing innovations and sustainable solutions of the highest quality that add value to people's lives around the globe.

We are now seeking like-minded professionals to join us as
Regional Business Development Manager, Data Center – Japan
, to drive growth and strengthen our market presence in this rapidly evolving sector.

Main objectives

GF Industry & Infrastructure Flow Solutions is looking for a Business Development Manager for the Data Center industry to develop and drive key strategic projects and applications in Japan. In this role, you will assume the leadership of developing CWS, FWS and TWS projects and applications in Japan by liaising with and supporting Sales, the Data Center team, Product Management, Pre-fabrication and Marketing. Your knowledge of focus applications and their importance for all stakeholders (DC owners, OEMs (rack or modules manufacturers), Consultants/ Engineers, Contractors, Installers) will help uncover new opportunities and drive the Data Center business. With your expertise you will guide the local Data Center sales engineers on how to open discussions, approach opportunities and lead technical introduction discussions. You will also be responsible for identifying potential innovations or new solutions and feeding back this to regional/ global Innovation and Product Management.

Strategy and guidance
– Develop market approach ("how to win"; target customers, channels, offering, message) based on strong understanding of key decision makers and stakeholders in the Data Center market. Align and agree on strategy with all DC sales teams in the Japan region and share success and knowledge across the APAC region.

Sales/ Marketing support
– Jointly engage in sales activities with local sales team to open-up new doors including supporting on exhibitions and customers' training and develop the winning value proposition for each project/ customer, focused on all relevant applications. Support sales in markets to identify customer needs and leverage e.g. governmental fundings opportunities, new technology, or Cooling efficiency design optimization. Be the driver of regional marketing initiatives and work closely with the SAP marketing team to roll out related marketing campaigns.

Coordination/ communication
– Link, communicate and connect for sharing/ learning with global and regional GF experts and external experts; work closely with Japan Data Center sales teams and manage necessary trainings coordination, application know-how build-up etc. Coordinate opportunities across countries and share best practices across North Asia & APAC where relevant.

Training/ capability strengthening
– Conduct regular training on Data Center applications and new technologies for the regional Data Center sales teams to ensure that they are well-equipped to engage customers from a solution-focused approach. Ensure that the Data Center sales teams are updated on new product initiatives and how they apply to the Data Center segment. Link with global Training and Business Development for regional specialized training.

Innovation
– Discover and develop Innovation opportunities based on strong Data Center application knowledge from the market. Work with the Global Product Management and Innovation teams to develop solutions/ products coming from customer/ market needs identified in the region.

Competences and responsibilities (budget, signing of contracts etc.)

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in the Data Center market
• Develop and implement sales strategies (especially go-to-market approach on how to win in the Data Center market) to achieve revenue and growth targets
• Build and maintain relationships with key customers, partners, and industry stakeholders
• Provide technical support and expertise to customers and the Data Center sales team
• Conduct market research and analysis to stay up to date on industry trends and competitive landscape
• Collaborate with internal teams (sales, marketing, pre-fabrication, project execution etc.) to ensure successful project execution and customer satisfaction
• Participate in trade shows, conferences, and other industry events to promote our brand and offerings jointly with GF employees from local sales entities

Job requirements:

1. Bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering, HVAC Engineering, or a related field.
2. Additional certifications in liquid cooling, thermal management, or related areas are a plus.
3. Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) or hyperscale Data Center
4. Knowledge of sustainability and energy efficiency best practices in Data Center cooling
5. A minimum of 5 years' experience in Data Center sales or business development
6. Proven experience (5+ years) in selling or implementing Direct Liquid Cooling systems, particularly within Data Center is a benefit
7. Strong expertise in piping systems, including design, installation, and maintenance
8. Experience in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and thermal management systems
9. Proven track record of developing and closing new business opportunities
10. Strong project management and leadership skills, with experience managing cross-functional teams and external contractors.
11. Excellent communication skills to present technical concepts and collaborate with various stakeholders, especially applicable to North Asia
12. Problem-solving mindset with the ability to troubleshoot complex systems.
13. Willingness to travel (~15%) as needed to meet with GF teams, customers and attend industry events