Job Title: Business Development Manager – Passive Fire Protection
Location: Bristol / Cardiff / South West / Hybrid
Job Summary:
We are seeking a driven and experienced Business Development Manager to spearhead growth within the crucial passive fire protection (PFP) sector. Leveraging your significant sales background and specific PFP knowledge, you will identify new business opportunities, build strategic relationships with key stakeholders (architects, specifiers, main contractors, consultants, end-users), and drive the adoption of our PFP solutions across the South West. You will be instrumental in expanding our market presence and achieving ambitious sales targets in this safety-critical industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Proactively identify, qualify, and secure new business opportunities within the passive fire protection market.
- Develop and execute a strategic sales plan for the assigned territory/sector to achieve or exceed sales targets and KPIs.
- Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with new and existing clients, specifiers, contractors, and other key influencers in the construction and building management industries.
- Develop a deep understanding of client needs regarding passive fire protection requirements, regulations (including relevant aspects of the Building Safety Act), and technical specifications.
- Conduct technical presentations and product demonstrations, clearly articulating the value proposition and benefits of our PFP systems and services.
- Prepare compelling proposals, quotations, and tender submissions tailored to specific project requirements.
- Negotiate contract terms and pricing effectively to close sales while maintaining profitability.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, market developments, competitor activities, and changes in PFP regulations and standards.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams (e.g., Technical, Operations, Marketing) to ensure seamless project handover and customer satisfaction.
- Maintain accurate records of sales activities, customer interactions, and pipeline management using the company CRM system.
- Represent the company professionally at industry events, trade shows, and conferences.
- Provide regular sales forecasts and market feedback to senior management.
Required Qualifications & Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years' proven experience in a B2B sales or business development role, consistently meeting or exceeding targets.
- Demonstrable experience and technical understanding within the passive fire protection (PFP) industry is essential (including knowledge of products like firestopping, intumescent coatings, fire barriers, fire-rated ductwork, etc.).
- Proven ability to understand technical specifications and communicate PFP solutions effectively.
- Experience selling into the construction industry, dealing with main contractors, sub-contractors, architects, and specifiers.
- Strong track record of developing new business and managing key accounts.
Desired Skills & Attributes:
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong negotiation and closing abilities.
- Self-motivated, results-driven, with a proactive approach to lead generation.
- Strategic thinker with strong planning and organizational skills.
- Ability to build rapport and trust quickly.
- Proficient in using CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and the Microsoft Office Suite.
- Understanding of UK building regulations related to fire safety (e.g., Approved Document B, Building Safety Act implications).
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Existing network of contacts within the target market is advantageous.
- Relevant technical or fire safety qualifications (e.g., IFE, ASFP) are desirable but not essential.
