Trainee Business Development Executive – Freight Forwarding Sales

About the role

We are looking for a motivated Trainee Business Development Executive to join a growing freight forwarding company in Basildon. This full‑time, office‑based position offers a clear pathway from entry‑level sales to managing your own desk, with training and support from an experienced team.

Key responsibilities

• Make outbound sales calls and follow up on inbound enquiries.
• Identify and engage potential new customers to generate business opportunities.
• Build and maintain a personal sales pipeline.
• Learn to sell freight forwarding and logistics solutions.
• Understand customer needs and translate conversations into sales.
• Handle objections professionally and close deals.
• Research markets, customers and new opportunities.
• Collaborate with manager and team to develop proposals and win business.

Required profile

• Previous experience in telesales, lead generation or targeted sales.
• Confident communicator who enjoys speaking with people.
• Ambitious, driven and eager to build a long‑term sales career.
• Positive attitude, resilience and a target‑focused mindset.
• Professional approach and good communication skills.
• Logistics or freight sales experience is a plus but not essential.

Required skills

• No specific technical skills required.

What we offer

• Basic salary £25,500‑£27,000 per year (visible).
• Commission and bonus scheme from day one.
• Quarterly commission structure.
• Clear progression route to senior sales roles and desk ownership.
• Full training in freight forwarding and sales techniques.