Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager

Location:

Ipswich, Suffolk
Salary: £50,000 basic + uncapped performance bonus (OTE £70k–£80k)

Shifts:

Monday–Friday, with regular European travel

About the Role:

We’re looking for an ambitious Business Development Manager to help grow this businesses European retailer and distributor network, with a key focus on Germany, Austria, Switzerland (DACH) and France.
You’ll identify and secure new partners for our leisure product range, including OPUS campers, smart tents, Quattro caravan movers, and Full Stop security products.
Because this role involves regular communication and commercial negotiation across Europe, we require someone who is fluent in either German or French, along with strong English skills.
You will also lead the planning and delivery of their European exhibitions, playing a key role in demonstrating products, meeting potential partners, and generating new business opportunities.
Benefits:
 
* Uncapped performance bonus
 
* Holiday Boost:
Earn an additional day of holiday each year (up to 5 extra days)
 
* Pension scheme
 
* Group Income Protection Scheme (after 6 months)
 
* Ongoing training & development opportunities
Responsibilities:
 
* New Account Acquisition:
Secure new retailers and distributors across Europe, with a focus on the DACH region and France.
 
* Sales Growth:
Drive new business revenue by developing tailored strategies for each account and product category.
 
* Prospecting & Outreach:
Conduct targeted outbound activity using native-level language skills to build strong commercial relationships.
 
* Exhibition Leadership:
Plan, prepare, and deliver European exhibition activity—including logistics, onsite representation, product demonstrations, and lead capture.
 
* Market Development:
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and pricing to support strategic expansion in each territory.
 
* Lead Management:
Qualify, prioritise, and follow up on new business opportunities, ensuring accurate CRM updates and strong pipeline visibility.
 
* Internal

Collaboration:

Work closely with the Account Manager for new partner handovers and coordinate with marketing and leadership teams on campaigns and strategy.
Requirements:
 
* Fluency in German or French (essential), plus strong English skills.
 
* Proven B2B sales and business development experience, ideally involving account acquisition.
 
* Valid UK Drivers License
 
* Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
 
* Ability to work proactively and independently, with a hunter mentality for new business.
 
* Comfortable demonstrating technical or mechanical products.
 
* Experience with in the leisure, camping, caravan, or automotive sectors is beneficial but not essential.
 
* Willingness to travel regularly across Europe, including major exhibitions