Chicago Business Development Manager / Branch Manager Position (Greater ORD Area)

Branch & Business Development Manager – Chicago

Location:Chicago, IL (Greater ORD Area)

Company:Compass Forwarding Co. Inc.

Type: Full-time

About Compass Forwarding

Compass Forwarding is a U.S.-based global logistics company headquartered in New York. For more than 75 years, Compass has provided tailored air, ocean, and project logistics solutions for clients in aerospace, defense, energy, and other industries.

Our Chicago branch is a key part of Compass USA's nationwide network—serving as a regional hub for air export operations and business expansion throughout the Midwest.

The Opportunity

We're seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial Branch & Business Development Manager to lead our Chicago branch. 

The right candidate will be a proven closer who thrives on building new business while also cultivating a motivated, performance-driven local team. You'll have the freedom to build relationships, grow accounts, and shape the future of Compass Chicago with the full support of our national operations and leadership teams.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Business Development (≈80%)

• Drive new business growth for Compass' air, ocean, and logistics services across the Midwest.
• Identify, pursue, and close opportunities with new and existing clients.
• Develop and execute a personal sales plan aligned with company revenue and margin targets.
• Build long-term relationships with customers in key verticals such as aerospace, defense, and energy.
• Collaborate with pricing, procurement, and operations teams to deliver accurate, competitive quotes.
• Manage and report sales activity using Pipedrive and CargoWise.
• Represent Compass at client meetings, trade shows, and industry events to build market presence.
• Consistently meet and exceed monthly and annual sales KPIs.

Branch Leadership & Culture (≈20%)

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the Chicago branch, ensuring quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
• Lead by example to create a culture of accountability, collaboration, and growth.
• Mentor and develop team members to enhance performance and cohesion.
• Act as the local point of contact for Compass USA leadership, coordinating resources and communication.
• Manage branch-level performance, budgets, and client experience standards.
• Build a positive, energized environment where people enjoy coming to work and take pride in their results.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience in international freight forwarding or logistics.
• Strong sales record with measurable revenue growth and customer acquisition success.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate small teams or branch operations.
• In-depth knowledge of air and ocean freight, Incoterms, pricing models, and logistics operations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Entrepreneurial, self-motivated, and comfortable operating independently.
• CRM proficiency (Pipedrive experience preferred) and familiarity with CargoWise.

Why Compass Forwarding

• Competitive base salary with uncapped commission potential.  (Salary commensurate with experience)
• Employer subsidized health insurance, dental insurance, and vision.
• 401(k)
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing, globally active organization.
• A high-performance culture where initiative and accountability are rewarded.