Business Development Manager

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Business Development Manager to drive new business acquisition and expand market opportunities. This role will focus on identifying and pursuing new business leads, developing client relationships, and collaborating closely with internal teams to ensure smooth onboarding and execution of all customer facing activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong sales focus, excellent communication skills, and a passion and drive for business development within the food and hospitality industry.

Key Requirements of the Role:

A confident and self-motivated team member with a positive, collaborative outlook is critical for this role, and someone who loves the food industry and has a passion for service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively identify and approach potential new clients, building a robust pipeline of opportunities to grow the business.
• Develop and execute targeted business development strategies that drive lead generation and improve conversion rates, contributing to overall company growth.
• Collaborate with the wider Account Management and NPD team to create and execute campaigns that support lead generation, brand awareness, and product promotion.
• Manage the sales cycle from prospecting and lead qualification through to contract negotiation, ensuring timely and successful closure of deals.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with prospective clients, presenting tailored solutions that align with their business needs.
• Maintain clean and consistent communication with new clients throughout the onboarding process, ensuring a smooth transition and seamless handover to account management teams.
• Confidently review and analyse customer contracts to strengthen client relationships and ensure agreements are optimised for mutual benefit. 

Market Research & Strategy:

• Monitor and assess market trends, competitor activity, and emerging opportunities within the food and hospitality sectors.
• Use data-driven insights to inform business development strategies and new business prospects.

Team Collaboration & Support:

• Collaborate with internal teams (marketing, operations, and product development) to align and execute business development strategies.
• Work closely with the Head of New Business and Growth and Head of Account Management to ensure seamless execution of overarching business strategies.

Performance Monitoring:

• Track and report on key business development and marketing metrics, including lead generation, client acquisition, and revenue growth.
• Provide regular updates to the Head of New Business and Growth on progress, challenges, and potential areas for improvement.

Required Skills & Experience

• Sales & Business Development:
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in business development or sales, ideally within the food or hospitality industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing the complete sales cycle, from lead generation to successfully closing deals.
• Strong track record of client acquisition and relationship management.
• Ability to understand and analyse market trends, identify opportunities, and understand customer needs to support strategic product development.
• Proven ability to coordinate and manage product launches and sales strategies.
• Commercially astute thinker with experience working alongside major retailers or quick service delivery retailers considered an advantage

• Organisational & Reporting Skills:
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritise tasks, and track performance metrics.
• Proficiency in CRM systems and reporting tools to manage sales pipelines and track key performance indicators (KPIs).

Personal Attributes

• Results-Driven: A goal-oriented individual with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding business development targets.
• Collaborative: A team player with a strong ability to work cross-functionally and build partnerships with both internal teams and external clients.
• Adaptable & Resilient: Ability to adapt to changing market conditions, overcome obstacles, and stay focused on growth goals without becoming absorbed in day to day operations.
• Passionate About the Industry: A deep passion for the food and hospitality industry in London, with a desire to stay current with trends and drive innovation.

Perks:

Highly competitive base salary, plus £10,000 potential bonus

• Flexible working: a great combination of working from the bakery, at home, and out and about in kitchens meeting chefs
• Free bread and baked goods to all staff, plus staff discount at our shop in Greenwich
• Free Birthday cake of your choice
• Pension scheme
• Seasonal company social events

Please note that all applications must include a cover letter explaining why you think this role is for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!