Business Development Lead

Theo James Recruitment; Washington; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive company in the UK is seeking a Business Development Lead to drive growth in the European HVAC and compressor market. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in automotive sales, strong market knowledge, and excellent collaboration skills. This role offers competitive compensation, a supportive environment, and opportunities for international exposure.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent benefits

Supportive environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in automotive sales, ideally with European OEMs.
• Strong knowledge of the HVAC and compressor market.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Secure new business across Europe in the automotive HVAC and compressor market.
• Collaborate with teams to define and execute growth strategies.
• Maintain strong communication for seamless project execution.

Skills

Automotive sales experience

Sales forecasting tools proficiency

Strategic business development

Collaboration skills

Willingness to travel

Driving license and passport

Multilingual skills (German or Chinese)

Job description

Job Title: Business Development Lead
Location: Washington, UK
Salary: Competitive, based on experience

The Company: Join a leading player in the automotive components sector, known for innovative technology and a strong presence across Europe. Our client prides itself on delivering high-quality HVAC and compressor solutions to top-tier OEMs, fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking culture. This is an exciting opportunity to become a key driver of growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Working Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday, with occasional travel across Europe

Job Description: We are seeking a results‑driven Business Development Lead with proven experience in the Automotive industry to spearhead expansion in the European automotive HVAC and compressor market. Reporting to the Regional Leader, the Business Development Lead will play a pivotal role in identifying strategic growth opportunities, building strong customer relationships, and representing the company's innovative technology solutions. This role is ideal for a hands‑on sales professional who thrives on developing new business, collaborating with cross‑functional teams, and delivering measurable results. The Business Development Lead will work closely with Sales, R&D, and the European Business Leader to drive the company's ambitious growth strategy. Travel to customer sites across Europe will be required.

Main Responsibilities

• Proactively secure new business across Europe within the automotive sector in the HVAC and compressor market.
• Collaborate with Sales, R&D and European leadership teams to define and execute growth strategies.
• Represent the company's technology and solutions to customers effectively.
• Identify new market opportunities and develop strategic initiatives to capitalize on them.
• Maintain strong cross‑functional communication to ensure seamless project execution.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in automotive sales, ideally with European OEMs.
• Strong market knowledge and proficiency in sales forecasting tools.
• Strategic and proactive approach to business development.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills across teams.
• Willingness to travel and advocate for technical solutions.
• Valid driving license and passport required.
• Multilingual skills (German or Chinese) advantageous but not essential.

Why Should You Apply?

This is your chance to join a forward‑thinking automotive company as a Business Development Lead, taking ownership of new business growth in Europe. You will be part of a supportive and innovative environment where your skills and initiative are highly valued. The role offers the opportunity to shape strategy, build lasting relationships, and make a tangible impact on business success. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and exposure to international markets, this is a career‑defining role for an ambitious sales professional.