Business Development Manager

ALH Recruitment are looking to recruit a Business Development Manager with immediate effect for our industry-leading client, based in the Peterborough area.

This is a hybrid role and a new position within the company due to expansion. This is a brand-new and exciting opportunity to join our client in the Transport Industry, in a hybrid commercial role, combining both business development and client relationship management.

Our client is looking for a self-motivated, methodical, and commercially minded individual who thrives on building relationships, identifying opportunities, and delivering measurable results. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing new business opportunities while maintaining and growing relationships with existing customers. This role is central to their continued growth, helping to ensure they remain one of the UK’s most trusted names in Logistics.

Purpose of the Role

To drive profitable growth through both new business acquisition and strategic account development, while ensuring they continue to provide exceptional service and value to its customers. The role requires someone who can work independently, manage their own pipeline, and collaborate effectively with the wider operations and finance teams.

You’ll be expected to stay up to date with industry standards, compliance requirements, and market trends, ensuring they remain competitive, compliant, and forward-thinking.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new opportunities across temperature-controlled, ambient, and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Build and manage a strong sales pipeline through research, networking, and referrals.
• Prepare quotations, tenders, and proposals aligned with their services and values.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing to secure profitable, long-term business.
• Support the onboarding process for new clients, ensuring a smooth and professional transition.

Client Relationship Management

• Act as the main point of contact for key customers, ensuring effective communication and proactive account management.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and analyse KPI data to drive improvement.
• Identify opportunities for growth and service enhancement within existing accounts.
• Work closely with operations and finance teams to ensure service levels and profitability are maintained.
• Represent them at client meetings, site visits, and industry events.

Commercial Awareness & Development

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of logistics industry standards, regulatory changes, and best practice.
• Monitor competitor activity and market trends to inform strategy and identify new opportunities.

Skills & Attributes

• Self-motivated and results-driven with a positive attitude.
• Strong relationship builder with excellent communication skills.
• Organised and methodical, able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Commercially astute with a good understanding of margin management.
• Confident presenting to clients and negotiating at senior level.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in logistics, transport, or temperature-controlled distribution.
• Knowledge of temperature-controlled logistics or FMCG distribution preferred.
• Able to work independently while being a strong team player.
• Full UK driving licence is essential, this role involves regular client visits and occasional overnight travel.

Progression

This is a key commercial role reporting to the General Manager, with clear opportunity to progress into a Head of Commercial or Commercial Manager position as the business continues to grow. Performance will be reviewed quarterly, with a formal annual appraisal conducted by the General Manager and the Financial Controller.

Summary

This is a unique opportunity to shape a new position within a fast-growing logistics company. It offers genuine autonomy, variety, and the chance to make a lasting impact on the commercial growth; you will win new work through trust, and keep it through service.

If you feel you have the skills and experience to step into this exciting role, please apply below.