About Seaman Paper & Vela
Seaman Paper is a family-owned, global packaging company with a legacy of innovation and sustainability, manufacturing lightweight paper packaging solution across our operations in the US, Europe, and Asia.
Vela, a brand segment within Seaman, is on a mission to eliminate plastic in the global supply chain. We partner with leading fashion and lifestyle brands to deliver sustainable paper-based packaging solutions across footwear, apparel, and accessories. Our work is global, fast-paced, and deeply rooted in innovation, service, and sustainability.
The Role
We’re looking for a driven, commercially minded Business Development Manager to grow our footprint across Europe. This role is focused on identifying and winning new business with fashion, apparel, and lifestyle brands that are seeking innovative, sustainable packaging solutions.
You’ll take the lead on prospecting, relationship-building, and pipeline development to turn opportunities into active, revenue-generating programs. You’ll also manage brand contracts and forecasting to ensure alignment across our supply chain and internal teams.
You understand the fashion sustainability agendas and feel at ease exchanging with sustainability managers, logistics and buying departments. You have a creative approach to problem solving and act as a trusted advisor to support your key accounts.
We are flexible on the location for this position in the US.
Key Responsibilities
Drive new business opportunities across focus markets in Europe, targeting footwear, apparel, and accessories brands.
Lead commercial conversations with brand stakeholders—sustainability, supply chain, and procurement teams.
Own pipeline development, quoting, pricing discussions, and deal closure.
Manage brand-level contracts and forecasting in partnership with our internal teams.
Work cross-functionally with product, customer success, and operations to bring new programs to life.
Represent Vela and Seaman Paper in brand meetings, presentations, and industry events.
Maintain accurate CRM data (Salesforce) and track progress toward sales targets.
What We're Looking For
5+ years of experience in commercial sales, business development, or key account management—ideally in packaging, fashion, trims, supply chain, or a sustainability-focused industry.
Strategic thinker with strong execution skills and a bias for action.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Well-organized and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Interest in sustainability topics and a passion for purpose-driven work.
Salesforce or CRM experience preferred.
Language skills: English high level is required, German (ideal), other European languages highly valuable.
Why Join Vela?
Be part of a fast-growing, international team focused on impact.
Work with leading global brands and supply chain partners.
Help eliminate plastic and shape the future of sustainable packaging.
Join our growing European Vela Team and help build something meaningful from the ground up.