Business Development Director

My client is seeking a Senior Business Development Manager or a Business Development Director to join their expanding sales and business development team. It is essential that candidates have prior experience in a B2B media, publishing, or events environment.

They offer a hybrid working policy, with two days a week in the office. Due to the location of the office, a vehicle is required for commuting.

The business development and sales team focuses on building strong relationships with both new and existing clients to generate revenue through the sale of print, digital, event, and conference products. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate a proven track record in driving revenue across both print and digital platforms, as well as excellent communication skills.

Applicants must have experience in building and maintaining effective relationships with clients through cold-calling, following up on leads, and identifying new opportunities through research.

UK and international travel will be required to meet with clients and attend industry events.

Key Responsibilities:

New Business Development:

• Proactively identify and develop new business opportunities to grow the client base and increase sales.
• Research potential clients and build strong relationships.
• Develop a deep understanding of relevant subject matter and provide market insights and feedback to the wider team.

Lead Generation:

• Conduct sales prospecting through outreach to clients in competitive media sectors.
• Initiate contact with prospective customers through cold-calling or prospecting, and arrange meetings, either virtually or at industry events.

Business Development:

• Gain a strong understanding of client needs and industry trends.
• Maintain a high level of scheduled sales calls, client visits, and meetings.
• Provide clients with detailed campaign performance reports.
• Attend relevant exhibitions and conferences, with potential for international travel.

Sponsorship and Delegate Sales:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the event subject matter.
• Research and build a strong sales pipeline by identifying new prospects.
• Create bespoke campaign proposals to address client needs.
• Follow up with previous event attendees and prospective attendees generated through marketing efforts.

General Responsibilities:

• Record all client information accurately and follow CRM processes.
• Consistently meet and exceed revenue targets for the assigned brand.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure successful delivery of client campaigns.
• Research upcoming industry events and maintain strong client relationships.
• Attend exhibitions and conferences as required, including international travel.

Key Skills and Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in business development, sales, or within publishing, media, sponsorship, or delegate sales.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with CRM systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and professionalism.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships.
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks.
• Commercial awareness and strategic thinking.

Benefits:

My client is committed to providing a supportive and flexible working environment, with significant opportunities for personal and professional development.

Additional benefits include:

• Target-related bonus opportunities
• Hybrid working (2 days in the office)
• Pension contribution
• Free parking
• Access to a benefits platform with discounts, wellness, and engagement tools
• Christmas closure
• Company events
• Uncapped commission scheme

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and growing team, playing a key role in driving business development and sales growth.