Business Development Manager

Girling Jones Ltd; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected civil engineering contractor in the South West is looking for a Business Development Manager. In this senior, outward-facing role, you will strengthen relationships within the civil engineering market while leading engagement and visibility for the organization. The ideal candidate will have substantial credibility and experience within this field, alongside strong communication and relationship-building skills. The role offers a competitive salary and flexible working arrangements, making it an exciting opportunity for those seeking influence within the industry.

Benefits

Company pension (5% employer contribution)

Mileage paid at 45p per mile

Flexible working hours

Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development or client relationships.
• Strong understanding of the civil engineering market.
• Confident and personable approach.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with civil engineering clients.
• Host and attend industry meetings and networking events.
• Support initiatives attracting new talent to civil engineering.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Stakeholder management

Relationship building

Civil engineering knowledge

Networking abilities

Job description

The Opportunity

A highly regarded, South West "Civil Engineering" contractor are seeking a Business Development Manager to lead relationship growth, industry engagement and regional presence across the South West.

This is a senior, outward-facing role, perfectly suited to someone who understands how the civil engineering market really works — the contractors, the clients, the frameworks, the personalities and the pressure points. You’ll act as a connector, advocate and trusted face of the organisation across the region.

It’s not a hard sales role. It’s about relationships, credibility and influence.

The Role

As Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for strengthening existing relationships and growing new ones across the regional ensuring the organisation remains relevant, visible and pride of place in the market.

Your role will involve a blend of strategic engagement, face‑to‑face meetings, events and industry representation, with a strong emphasis on being out in the market rather than stuck behind a desk.

Key responsibilities include :

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with civil engineering clients and subcontractors across the South West
• Acting as a trusted point of contact and advocate for the business
• Hosting and attending regular industry meetings, liaison events and networking forums
• Organising and attending sector‑focused events
• Supporting initiatives aimed at skills, careers and attracting new talent into civil engineering and the business as a whole
• Working collaboratively with peer organisations and professional bodies
• Supporting growth of the organisation’s regional reach and engagement
• Representing the organisation professionally at conferences, awards and formal industry events

A typical week is varied and people‑focused, including :

• Regular face‑to‑face meetings
• Industry events, breakfasts, lunches and the occasional black‑tie evening
• Career fairs, awards ceremonies and sector forums

Internal meetings and reporting About You

This role will suit someone who already has strong credibility in the South West civil engineering market and enjoys relationship‑led business development. You will either be in a Business Development role currently or keen to move into this type of role from an operational or commercial perspective.

You’re likely to bring :

• Previous experience working within civil engineering contracting or subcontracting
• A strong understanding of the South West construction and infrastructure market
• Experience in business development, client relationships or senior operational roles
• A personable, confident and professional approach
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• A network you can lean on — and the ability to grow it further
• A desire for a role that is influential, flexible and works around you

What’s On Offer

• 65,000 – £70,000 salary based on a4‑day working week
• Flexible working hours (approx. 31–38 hours per week)
• Company pension (5% employer contribution)
• Mileage paid at 45p per mile
• Flexitime and hybrid working
• A role with autonomy, influence and real job satisfaction

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to step into a high‑trust, high‑profile role where your industry knowledge, relationships and personality genuinely matter. You’ll shape conversations, support the sector and play a visible role in the future of civil engineering across the South West