Principal Business Development

Unispace; Singapore; On-site; SGD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Unispace in Singapore is seeking a Principal Business Development Manager to lead regional growth through strategic client relationships and innovative opportunities in a dynamic, global design-build environment.

You will align with marketing, design, and delivery teams, build a high-performing local team, and drive long-term partnerships while promoting inclusivity and sustainable business practices. This permanent role offers significant scope to shape regional strategy.

Qualifications

• Must have in-depth knowledge of the local market and client landscape.
• Proven ability to generate leads and convert opportunities into revenue.
• Demonstrated skill in building and sustaining long-term client relationships.
• Experience coaching and managing a diverse team to achieve targets.
• Strong business acumen and adaptability in complex markets.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a localized business development strategy aligned with regional and global goals.
• Lead lead source analysis and implement effective lead management.
• Collaborate with marketing, design, and delivery teams to support strategy evolution.
• Foster strong relationships with target clients and industry leaders.
• Implement innovative approaches to attract and engage prospective clients.
• Mentor a high-performing local business development team with clear goals.

Skills

Regional market knowledge

Lead generation

Client relationship management

Team leadership

Strategic planning

Job description

At Unispace, we create spaces that empower people and businesses to thrive. We are a global design-build partner delivering workplace and life sciences projects for some of the world’s most innovative brands.

With over 500 people across four continents, we bring together strategy, design, project management, and delivery into one seamless experience. Our integrated approach enables us to move with agility, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us create better experiences for our clients and each other.

At Unispace, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work alongside talented global teams, and grow your career in an environment that encourages innovation and new ideas.

Principal Business Development Manager

Permanent

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.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle where required by applicable law.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Unispace, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams, our culture, and the work we deliver for our clients. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.