Business Development Manager in Dorking

Responsibilities

• Sales
• Manage day-to-day sales across the shows.
• Lead by example – responsible for delivering personal sales targets across the events.
• Proactively deliver the show strategy across new and existing business.
• Deliver the campaign strategy as set out by the Event Directors, exceeding show targets including overall numbers of exhibitors, exhibitor mix, stand sales, sponsorship inventory, yield, and sponsorship revenues.
• Ensure the sales plan is being delivered on target and budget, and that activity targets (outbound call volumes and face‑to‑face meetings) are met.
• Visit and canvas at competitor and industry events, developing a systematic understanding of and monitoring of competitors.
• Manage the prospect database to ensure it is constantly updated and fit for purpose in line with the company's CRM policy.
• Ensure a constant high quality of delivery in all prospect, exhibitor, and partner communication, ensuring the message is on point.
• Work with, collaborate with, and support the US‑based Content Manager in identifying and sourcing companies for exhibiting or sponsoring content streams within Vehicle Tech Week.
• Brands
• Execute the Event Director & team's strategy and objectives outlined in the event's business plan.
• With the Event Director, develop an exhibitor campaign strategy including vertical and horizontal activity.
• Ensure you are regularly out meeting customers, prospects, and event partners (at least one day every fortnight).
• Ensure that the exhibitor marketing strategy is delivered, monitored, and analysed.
• Identify, implement, and manage profitable show features.
• Monitor and report competitor activity, taking actions where necessary.
• Get close to your market, understand its trends, and develop your event around it.
• Financial
• Maintain an accurate stand and sponsorship ledger.
• Regularly reconcile sales ledger, accounting ledgers, and CRM sales logs.
• Provide a monthly report and forecast on show revenues, contribution, manpower, and actions being taken for the shows to achieve the budget.
• Relationships
• Foster positive and professional relationships with key suppliers, associations, media, and commercial partners.

Qualifications

• A proven background in the events and/or automotive sector.
• A strong track record of solid sales growth and revenue generation.
• Excellent customer relationship skills.
• The ability to source, nurture, and close your own pipeline/sales leads.
• A self‑starter mentality with the drive to exceed targets.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively with cross‑functional teams.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of the automotive, agriculture, and off‑highway industries.
• Experience managing CRM systems and sales pipelines.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Confidence‑building relationships with senior stakeholders and industry partners.
• Willingness to travel regularly for client meetings and industry events.