Business Development Director

Location: Multi-site

Department: Venues/ Leisure/ Sports/ B&I

Reporting to: Managing Director

Salary: 65k plus great commission package, travel expenses and some hybrid.

We are partnering with a leading hospitality and contract catering group to find an exceptional Business Development Director.

This is a standout opportunity for a commercially driven, relationship-focused leader to take ownership of sales strategy, drive growth across a nationwide venue portfolio and help shape the future of a business with a strong purpose and an impressive sustainability agenda.

This brand is known for delivering outstanding food experiences while actively striving to reduce its environmental footprint, support local communities and champion ethical sourcing. They’re ambitious, people-focused and on an exciting growth trajectory — and they’re looking for someone who can help accelerate that journey.

The Opportunity

As Business Development Director, you will be the driving force behind the organisation’s venue sales function. Your focus will be on developing new contracted opportunities across events, leisure, sporting venues and B&I, strengthening client and partner relationships, and supporting internal teams to retain and grow existing business.

You will work closely with the Managing Director and senior leadership, contributing to key commercial decisions, long-term growth planning and the ongoing delivery of the company’s sustainability strategy.

Sales Strategy & Business Growth

• Develop and execute strategic sales and marketing plans for the venue portfolio.
• Identify, research and cultivate relationships with high-value contract prospects.
• Drive new revenue streams from corporate clients, agencies and event organisers.
• Oversee tender processes end-to-end, including pitch delivery.
• Provide accurate forecasting, pipeline reporting and performance tracking.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis to keep the business ahead of industry trends.

Client & Partner Relationships

• Build strong, trusted relationships with clients, consultants and venue partners.
• Attend meetings, site visits and tastings as needed.
• Ensure exceptional customer service across all interactions.
• Address and resolve client issues professionally and efficiently.
• Support venue teams in contract retention and re-bid processes.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Support the development and training of venue sales teams.
• Lead weekly sales meetings and encourage inclusive, collaborative decision-making.
• Foster a positive, growth-orientated team culture.

Operational & Financial Accountability

• Ensure sales targets, turnover and profit objectives are met.
• Assist in setting annual sales budgets and presenting these to clients.
• Maintain accurate CRM records, activity logs and opportunity databases.
• Ensure all purchasing, expenses and processes follow company policies.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a confident, strategic and relationship-led commercial leader who can combine strong sales acumen with an ability to inspire, influence and collaborate. The ideal candidate will bring:

• A proven track record in business development, ideally in venues, events, contract catering or hospitality/ B&I
• Strong tendering and pitch experience.
• Excellent networking, negotiation and communication skills.
• A genuine passion for sustainability and purpose-driven business.
• The confidence to work closely with Board-level stakeholders.

If you’re an ambitious business development leader looking for a role where commercial growth meets social and environmental purpose, we’d love to discuss this opportunity with you.