Business Development Director

Compass Group UK; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the foodservice sector is seeking a Business Development Director to drive new business initiatives. You will be responsible for managing sales processes, building client relationships, and developing strategies to enhance industry presence. This role requires senior-level experience, strong project management capabilities, and a flexible mindset to adapt to client needs.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programmes

Healthcare benefits

Discounts

Wellness classes

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in business development or procurement within foodservice or facilities management.
• Proven ability to develop effective relationships with key clients.
• Experience managing long sales cycles and commercial proposals.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of successful business bids to meet set income targets.
• Manage the business development pipeline and client engagements.
• Represent the company and explore opportunities to extend services geographically.

Skills

Project Management

Communication

Relationship Building

Problem Solving

Job description

Job Title: Business Development Director

Overall Purpose of the Role

This role will have responsibility for new business across the sector. The Business Development Director's responsibility is to generate new business bids to drive sales and profitability to meet budgetary targets. They will manage all steps of the sales process, from pipeline management and initial appointments to site surveys, proposal compilation, presentations, and securing signed contracts. The role also involves managing bidding and internal approval procedures to ensure deals are commercially sound, competitive, and profitable. Additionally, the director will proactively seek new business opportunities, support national/regional bid opportunities, and work with the Growth Director to enhance sector presence through strategic engagement and industry forums.

The job role:

• Lead the development of successful bids to generate income against targets.
• Create and execute a client relationship-driven Business Development Plan.
• Build and maintain relationships with target clients and potential partners.
• Identify early opportunities and manage engagement with clients.
• Manage the business development pipeline, including bid processes and submissions.
• Utilize marketing initiatives and the CRM system to increase sector presence and track opportunities.
• Develop thought leadership through webinars, articles, and events.
• Represent the company at internal and external events as a credible ambassador.
• Bring innovative ideas to BD activities and seek cross-selling opportunities.
• Explore opportunities to extend services geographically.

Person specification:

• Senior-level experience in business development or procurement within the public sector, foodservice, retail, or facilities management industries.
• Credibility with key client contacts and ability to develop effective relationships.
• Strong project management and communication skills.
• Experience with long sales cycles and commercial proposals.
• Flexible, problem-solving mindset and ability to listen to client needs.

Requirements:

• Must hold a full UK driving license.

Benefits:

• Contributory pension scheme, career development programmes, healthcare benefits, discounts, and wellness classes.

About Us

As part of Compass, you'll help feed people, fuel progress, and forge connections across thousands of venues. We promote an inclusive environment that values diversity and supports career growth.