BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - PORTFOLIO SEARCH - MANUFACTURING

November 18, 2025

The Appointed Executive

Business Development Manager

Chris Layton brings over a decade of experience in technical sales, with a consistent track record of securing high-value accounts exceeding $1M in annual revenue. He has built deep relationships across OEM clients in the Aerospace, Defense, and Off-Highway sectors, making him a strategic asset to VEZA Manufacturing’s expansion plans.

Chris has a strong background in full solution sales, from technical scoping through to deal close, and a proven ability to penetrate complex, regulated markets. Jack Burns described Chris as a “top-tier commercial operator” who fits perfectly into VEZA’s growth trajectory and go-to-market strategy. With his results-driven approach and deep sector knowledge, Chris is set to play a key role in helping VEZA achieve its $500M growth vision.

 
 
 
 
 

Revenue

$1M Plus

10+

Sales experience

THE REASON FOR THE SEARCH

Following the formation of VEZA Manufacturing through the merger of four companies, the business inherited a sales team that lacked the required performance and market penetration. With ambitious plans to grow from $100M to $500M in revenue within five years, the company needed experienced, proactive Business Development Managers to drive new customer acquisition, particularly across underserved geographic territories.

THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM

Auxo Investment Partners

THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY

VEZA Manufacturing is a national provider of high-quality, custom-engineered manufacturing solutions, specializing in wire harnesses, cable assemblies, sub-assemblies, and full turnkey box builds. Formed in 2023 through the merger of Golden State Assembly, SOS Manufacturing, TACK Electronics, and Morgan Royce Industries, VEZA operates four manufacturing plants across California, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

The business serves high-spec sectors including aerospace, defense, medical, industrial vehicles, and advanced electronics. With capabilities ranging from micro wiring to high-voltage assemblies and certifications including ISO 9001, IPC-A-620, AS9100, and ITAR registration, VEZA is positioned as a trusted partner to OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. The company combines scale, capacity (operating only one shift per plant), and deep industry expertise to support a significant growth plan via add-ons and organic expansion.

THE SEARCH REQUIREMENTS

  • Proven ability to win new business in technical manufacturing

  • Experience in wire, cable, or harness sales

  • Sector familiarity: Aerospace, Medical, Electronics, or Industrial Vehicles

  • Strong organizational and follow-up skills

  • Effective use of CRM tools like Salesforce (preferred)

  • Ability to build and manage OEM and Tier 1 supplier relationships

  • Self-motivated and driven sales performers

CHALLENGES

The company was shifting from inherited, underperforming sales resources to a high-performance, growth-oriented team. Building new territories from the ground up and winning business in highly technical, regulated markets required strategic planning, market research, and persistence. The right candidates needed to work autonomously, manage long sales cycles, and translate VEZA’s value proposition into clear wins.

THOUGHTS ON THE CANDIDATE

The appointed Business Development Managers bring deep expertise and a proven track record across VEZA’s core markets. With over 10 years of sales experience, they have consistently won large accounts, each generating over $1M in annual revenue. Their ability to secure OEM partnerships, particularly in Aerospace, Defense, and Off-Highway sectors, aligns directly with VEZA’s customer base and strategic objectives. Each candidate has full solution sales experience, enabling them to manage complex cycles from technical scoping through to contract close.

Jack Burns, Principal, Raw Selection

 

Get in Touch

Raw Selection favors a meticulous approach to talent research. Our process for selecting the right talent means we can boast a 100% success rate for all our retained and engaged C-Suite clients, with 96% of placed candidates still in their roles after 12 months.

If you are looking for new talent, contact us now.

Get in Touch