Director of Business Development

Overview

Shillito Executive Search has been exclusively retained by a leading UK manufacturing business to recruit a hands-on Business Development Director. The role leads national sales efforts and drives growth, with responsibility to win major contracts directly and inspire a high-performing sales team.

• Lead a team of 4–5 Business Development Managers across the UK
• Personally secure major contracts and develop key customer relationships
• Use lead generation tools such as Glenigans to identify and convert opportunities
• Build strategic relationships with Tier 1 construction and social housing contractors
• Set clear KPIs and coach the team to exceed performance targets
• Coordinate closely with internal sales, estimating, and operations teams at both manufacturing sites
• Act as the voice of the customer within the business

• A strong background in B2B sales or business development in construction, manufacturing, or compliance-driven sectors
• Proven leadership of successful sales teams
• An existing network or the ability to open doors with Tier 1 contractors within the social housing sector or strong experience of selling fire or security doorsets
• Excellent commercial awareness, influencing, and negotiation skills
• A hands-on, energetic, lead-from-the-front approach

• Product Training: 1 week on the factory floor + 1 week with the estimating/pricing team
• Market Insight: Site visits, shadowing, and sessions with market experts
• Customer Immersion: Introductory meetings with key customers alongside senior leaders

• Be part of a market leader in a highly regulated, safety-critical industry
• Work in a growth-focused, agile business backed by strong investment
• Enjoy autonomy, influence, and the opportunity to make a real commercial impact

• Director

• Full-time

• Business Development

• Manufacturing