Principal Business Development

Unispace Life Sciences; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Unispace Life Sciences in Reading seeks a Principal, Business Development to expand our regional presence through meaningful client relationships, strategic planning, and innovative approaches to identifying new opportunities. You will lead a local team, collaborate with marketing, design, and delivery, map client ecosystems, and drive cross-regional opportunities while promoting inclusivity and growth.

Hybrid working arrangements are available, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance,

Qualifications

• Experience in developing and executing regional business development strategies.
• Proven ability to lead and coach a diverse team.
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a localized business development strategy aligned with regional and global goals.
• Collaborate with marketing, design, and delivery teams to provide insights and analytics.
• Foster strong relationships with target clients and industry leaders.

Skills

Lead generation

Client relationship management

Team leadership

Strategic planning

Industry networking

Job description

At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology.

We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well-being. Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds.

While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world's leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well-being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well-being.

To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work-life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.

Why you’re here

As the Principal, Business Development, you play a vital role in expanding our business in your region through meaningful client relationships, strategic planning, and innovative approaches to identifying new opportunities. You are passionate about delivering results, developing long term relationships, and fostering a collaborative culture that drives success. Your leadership will position our studio and team as industry leaders while promoting inclusivity, creativity, and growth.

What you’re responsible for:

• Develop and execute a localized business development strategy aligned with regional and global goals.
• Conduct lead source analysis and implement effective lead management strategies.
• Collaborate with marketing, design, and delivery teams to develop insights and analytics that support strategy evolution.
• Foster strong, mutually beneficial relationships with target clients and industry leaders.
• Implement creative and innovative approaches to attract and engage prospective clients.
• Actively map and track client relationships, leveraging past connections and industry insights to drive results.
• Lead research projects and events that reflect the brand and drive engagement with clients.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across regions to identify key opportunities and ensure alignment with company strategy.
• Partner with the Global Business Development team to identify and nurture cross-regional client opportunities.
• Facilitate open communication and foster partnerships across teams and disciplines to create holistic solutions.
• Build, coach, and mentor a high-performing local business development team with clear goals and objectives.
• Develop expertise within the team in key areas, including networking, research, cold calling, and client intelligence.
• Promote inclusivity and ensure open communication, supporting team growth and success.
• Demonstrate strong leadership by setting clear expectations, providing feedback, and celebrating achievements.

Your experience and skills:

• Extensive knowledge of the local market, industry trends, and client landscape.
• Proven experience in lead generation, client-facing relationship management, and business development strategies.
• Strong track record of achieving business growth targets and building lasting client relationships.
• Experience coaching and managing a diverse team to achieve exceptional results.
• A relationship builder who excels in client orientation and communicating with impact.
• Strong business acumen and organizational agility to navigate complex markets.
• Resilience and initiative to tackle challenges with creativity and adaptability.
• A natural collaborator who thrives in a team-focused, inclusive environment.
• Ability to influence others, drive results, and develop talent within your team.

How we’ll measure it:

• Champion the adoption of Business Development methodologies, standards, and technology solutions within the studio to empower team effectiveness and promote organizational excellence.
• Foster a culture of precision and thoroughness in research and intelligence gathering to ensure seamless and informed handovers.
• Collaborate with the head of business development to design and implement local risk management plans, addressing legal, reputational, and financial risks proactively and inclusively.
• Promote a data-driven approach by ensuring accurate and timely information is consistently entered into the CRM system.
• Aid in the alignment of local studio standards, technology solutions, and processes with global practices to enhance brand consistency, support efficiencies, and foster innovation.
• Partner with Marketing & Communications to enhance the impact of events, ensuring they are innovative, engaging, and accessible to diverse audiences.
• Apply insights from lessons learned to continuously refine and improve strategies for long-term success.
• Demonstrate measurable progress in implementing CSR initiatives that positively impact the community and reflect a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.