Business Development Manager

The Business Development Manager is responsible for generating new opportunities while developing and expanding strategic client relationships. The role combines account management and stakeholder engagement to create industry-led projects that support the UK’s Industrial Strategy. The role integrates market intelligence, client engagement, lead generation and cross-functional collaboration to support strategic business objectives and contribute to the delivery of the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and Connected & Automated Mobility (CAM) strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Investment
* Identify, develop and convert opportunities that support innovation, investment and business growth in support of the UK’s Industrial Strategy
* Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of industry-led projects that align with the APC and ZENZIC business objectives
* Engage with organisations to understand their strategic priorities, operational challenges, and growth ambitions
* Maintain and regularly review a target account list, ensuring effective follow-up and accurate tracking of client interactions using CRM tools
* Apply systems-thinking principles to assess client opportunities, project dependencies, risks and potential benefits
* Work closely with internal teams to ensure alignment and maximise business development outcomes
* Prepare regular reports on business development performance, pipeline activity and forecasts against agreed business objectives
* Represent APC & Zenzic at conferences, trade exhibitions, industry events and speaking engagements as required
* Undertake additional duties as required to support the wider objectives of the organisation

Strategic Account Management
* Build and manage relationships with key clients and partners across the UK and internationally
* Build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across industry, government and academia
* Maintain account intelligence, engagement plans and opportunity pipelines within the CRM and business management systems
* Identify opportunities to deepen client engagement and increase the strategic value of key accounts

Industry Knowledge & Market Insight
* Maintain a strong understanding of industry trends, emerging technologies, policy developments and market dynamics
* Monitor sector challenges and opportunities to inform business development activities and strategic planning
* Share market intelligence and strategic insights with colleagues and stakeholders.
* Identify future areas of growth, innovation and investment relevant to customers, partners and the wider ecosystem

Person Specification – Experience, Knowledge and Skills
* Degree (or equivalent) in Business, Engineering or a related discipline
* Proven experience within the automotive or advanced manufacturing sectors within business development, strategic account management, stakeholder engagement or partnership development
* Experience of working within complex stakeholder environments where collaboration, influence and relationship management are critical to success
* Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage, influence and build credibility with senior stakeholders
* Demonstrate ability to develop, maintain and grow strategic stakeholder relationships
* Strong analytical, problem-solving and strategic planning capabilities, with the ability to identify opportunities and develop practical solutions
* Commercially awareness, with an understanding of business drivers, customer requirements and value creation opportunities
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
* Self-motivated, proactive and results-oriented, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
* Willingness to travel across the UK and internationally as required