Business Development Manager

About the role

WE Talent is seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to join a market‑leading manufacturing business in Southampton. You will own an international customer network, identify new market opportunities and drive growth across multiple sectors.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and develop new markets and business opportunities across existing and emerging sectors.
• Drive sales growth by expanding opportunities within established markets and exploring new industrial applications.
• Establish and support new distributor partnerships and work closely with existing distributors to develop sales strategies.
• Manage a portfolio of existing, lapsed and prospective customers, ensuring high engagement and service levels.
• Maintain regular communication with distributor networks to maximise opportunities.
• Develop deep product knowledge to provide technical guidance to customers when required.
• Represent the business at trade shows, exhibitions and customer events, generating commercial leads.
• Travel regularly to customer sites across the UK and Europe to build relationships and support growth initiatives.

Required profile

• Demonstrated success in a Business Development Manager, Sales Manager or similar commercially focused role.
• Strong background in product‑based B2B sales.
• Proven ability to generate new business while effectively managing existing customer relationships.
• Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to identify and convert sales opportunities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Proactive, self‑motivated and able to work independently.

Required skills