Senior Business Development Manager in Saffron Walden

Artifex Interior Systems is pleased to confirm the below opportunity within our business. We have two positions available with slightly different scopes - please see 'Preferred skills and experience' for more details. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our Business Development and R&D team at a key moment, as we drive new business, growth, and diversification under Tata AutoComp's strategic direction. As we enter an exciting expansion phase, you'll gain hands-on exposure to commercial activities within a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. Guided by our commitment to build tomorrow's interior solutions today, we pride ourselves on living our values of Unity, Integrity, Responsibility, Pioneering and Excellence – and we're looking for motivated individuals ready to help shape our future.

Main purpose of the job

The Senior Manager Business Development is responsible for driving strategic growth initiatives, identifying new business opportunities, and building strong relationships with key stakeholders. This role requires a proactive leader who can develop and execute business development strategies to expand market presence, increase revenue, and strengthen the organization's competitive position.

Main missions and results

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement business development strategies aligned with organisational goals and Artifex values of Integrity and Responsibility. Identify emerging market trends and opportunities for expansion while ensuring ethical and sustainable growth.
• Market & Stakeholder Development: Build and maintain relationships with prospective clients, partners, and industry influencers based on trust, unity, and transparency. Lead negotiations and secure Customer Program Awards to achieve Corporate Targets while upholding principles of fairness and excellence.
• Partnership & Alliances: Establish strategic partnerships to enhance product/service offerings and market reach with a pioneering mindset and adherence to ethical standards. Manage and nurture long-term relationships with key accounts fostering mutual respect and responsibility.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and guide the business development team, inclusive of the Cross Functional Stakeholders to achieve performance objectives. Foster a culture of Unity, Integrity, Responsibility, Pioneering and Excellence with all Stakeholders. Lead the Business by example, providing engaged ‘Hands On' support where needed to ensure we drive to success. Directly accountable for the performance and professional development of Managers and Senior Professionals within the Business Development team. Guides employees in complex problem solving and drives continuous improvement activities to support team productivity.
• Performance & Reporting: Track and analyse KPIs to measure success of business development initiatives. Prepare regular reports for senior leadership on progress and outcomes.

Preferred skills and experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or related field. Alternatively, demonstrable industry recognised experience.
• Good working knowledge / understanding industry standards & related procedures including: APQP, PPAP, IATF.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication skills that reflect Unity and Integrity.
• Knowledge of customer base, company product, processes, technology and financial requirements.
• Sufficient verbal and written language skills associated and the programme / operational locations.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the customer and Artifex / TACO organisations with transparency and respect.
• Adaptability in the location of work including business travel.
• Ability to develop complex cost models from ‘Ground Up' approach to support business and customer requirements with accuracy and responsibility.
• Flexibility to change priorities in response to changing programme demands while maintaining principles of excellence.
• For one of the two positions we are recruiting for, English or German First Language is a must with strong requirement for the second to be fluent. For the other, just English is required.

Note: this is not an exhaustive list. All employees are expected to show flexibility and continued self-development to meet the ever-changing needs of the business. All job descriptions / vacancy notices will be subject to continual development.

Artifex is an equal opportunities employer and committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. We are committed to creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our staff are recognised.

Interested? If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV with your contact details. If this job isn't quite what you are looking for but you are looking for a new position within Automotive, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.