Business Development Manager – Apprenticeships

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Job Title:

Business Development Manager – Apprenticeships

Location:

Home Based (With travel to clients as and when required)

Salary: £35,000 - £45,000

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Business Development Manager to grow employer engagement and drive new business across the apprenticeship sector. This role focuses on identifying, developing, and onboarding new employer partners, supporting both levy and non-levy clients to maximise the value of apprenticeships as part of their workforce development strategy.

This is a target-driven role. The ideal Business Development Manager is someone with strong sales capability, excellent relationship-building skills, and a solid understanding of the UK apprenticeship landscape.

Key Responsibilities – As a Business Development Manager

* Proactively identify, target, and secure new employer partnerships across a range of sectors.

* Promote a portfolio of apprenticeship programmes, positioning apprenticeships as a strategic workforce solution.

* Achieve and exceed monthly and quarterly targets for new starts, employer sign-ups, and revenue.

* Develop and manage a robust new business sales pipeline, from initial contact through to onboarding.

* Engage with both levy-paying and non-levy employers, providing clear guidance on funding rules and benefits.

* Conduct employer needs analysis to identify skills gaps and recommend tailored apprenticeship solutions.

* Provide advice on apprenticeship funding, levy transfer opportunities, and compliance requirements.

* Maintain accurate CRM records, track activity, and produce regular performance reports.

* Represent the organisation at networking events, employer forums, and careers or industry events.

* Work closely with internal delivery, compliance, and learner engagement teams to ensure a smooth employer onboarding experience.

* Ensure all documentation and processes align with ESFA funding rules and regulatory requirements.

Skills and Experience

* Proven experience in business development, B2B sales, or employer engagement, ideally within apprenticeships, training, or education.

* Strong understanding of the UK apprenticeship system, including levy and non-levy funding.

* Demonstrated track record of generating new business and achieving sales targets.

* Confident building relationships with senior stakeholders and decision-makers.

* Strong negotiation, influencing, and closing skills.

* Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously.

* Comfortable using CRM systems, Microsoft Office, and digital sales tools.

* Self-motivated, target-driven, and commercially focused, with a consultative sales approach.

Desirable

* Existing employer contacts or networks.

* Experience working in a training provider, FE, or skills-based organisation.

* Knowledge of ESFA compliance and apprenticeship onboarding processes.

Paul Feldman is the National Skills Agency Data Protection Officer. Your data will be stored until notice is given by you for it to be removed. Our Data Protection Policy will be forwarded to you on request. As we get a high number of applications we may be unable to give feedback to unsuccessful candidates. We will retain your details to keep you informed of other opportunities.

National Skills Agency Ltd is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy and is an Equal Opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all backgrounds