Automotive Business Development & Strategic Accounts Lead

About Code Metal

Code Metal is redefining code translation for mission-critical industries, helping defense partners move more quickly and reliably from algorithm to silicon. Our platform accelerates deployment of DSP, RF, communications, and embedded signal processing algorithms onto heterogeneous compute targets, including GPUs, FPGAs, ASICs, and edge SoCs. We also support automotive, aerospace, and semiconductor partners deploying complex algorithms onto constrained hardware with speed and rigor.

The Role:

This role sits at the intersection of business development, technical collaboration, and long-term account growth. This role is ideal for someone who understands the automotive ecosystem, the transition to Software-Defined Vehicles, and the software challenges facing automotive engineering organizations. You’ll quarterback engagements from introduction through technical evaluation, commercial close and expansion - working closely with Solutions, Product and Engineering.

Automotive Responsibilities:

• Develop and own a portfolio of strategic automotive accounts across OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, semiconductor companies, and automotive technology providers.
• Build sales pipeline through your own network, targeted outbound, industry events, referrals, and ecosystem relationships.
• Identify organizations and programs where code portability, modernization, verification, or hardware migration create significant technical and economic value.
• Partner with Solutions and Engineering to scope technical evaluations and align platform delivery with customer requirements.
• Manage account growth and long-term success across programs.
• Represent Code Metal at industry conferences and customer demos.
• Explore pricing and licensing models that drive long-term partnerships.
• Bring customer and market intelligence directly into Code Metal’s product and company strategy.
• Operate comfortably in an environment where the playbook is still being written.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 5+ years of business development or strategic account experience in the automotive industry.
• Proven ability to navigate and close complex technical sales cycles.
• Familiarity with Software-Defined Vehicle and the associated software development challenges.
• Strong technical aptitude and understanding of embedded software/hardware systems.
• Comfortable operating in an early-stage environment with ambiguity, rapid iteration, and significant individual ownership.
• Demonstrated ability to generate your own pipeline rather than relying exclusively on inbound opportunities.
• US Citizen or permanent resident.
• Location preference: Detroit, MI or San Francisco Bay Area, but open to remote.

Benefits

• Pay depends on experience, but we strive to be at the upper end of the salary range.
• Health care plan with 100% premium coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 401k with 5% matching.
• Paid Time Off (uncapped vacation, plus sick and public holidays).
• Flexible hybrid or remote work arrangement.
• Relocation assistance for qualifying employees.