At a Glance
- Tasks: Help grow and manage our partner portfolio in a dynamic digital marketplace.
- Company: Join Debenhams, a beloved brand transforming the online shopping experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, health perks, and up to 40% off all brands.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant atmosphere with a supportive company culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a team redefining retail for future generations with exciting growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in office-based sales and strong Excel skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
THE ROLE
At Debenhams Group, we are on a journey of transformation, revitalising our brand, culture, and connection with colleagues and customers alike. In a fast-changing retail environment, effective and authentic communication is vital to building trust, aligning our teams, and amplifying the impact of our work across internal and external audiences. We are looking to hire an ambitious and energetic Business Development Associate to join the Marketplace team and help us expand our partner portfolio. You will be joining a growing Community Development function focused on growing and scaling our partner portfolio across all categories across the Group brands. You will be the front of the company and have the dedication and passion to build and develop strong relationships with partners. You will be identifying, onboarding and supporting new sellers onto Debenhams Group brands, helping them launch successfully and setting them up for long-term success. The team's mission is to make Brand partners successful across Debenhams Group brands and for us to be the Brand partner of choice. You will report directly to the Senior Business Development Manager and play a key role in supporting the continued growth of our brand portfolio across the Group brands. This role will be based out of our central Manchester office.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Identify and engage prospective brand partners through outbound outreach, promoting the Debenhams Group marketplace proposition and supporting the acquisition of new sellers.
- Manage the sales pipeline, ensuring accurate records, timely follow-ups and clear visibility of partner progress.
- Build and develop strong relationships with prospective partners, acting as a key point of contact throughout the sales process.
- Work closely with the Onboarding teams to ensure a seamless handover of newly signed partners and support a successful launch.
- Ensure all onboarding requirements are completed accurately prior to handover and in line with business requirements.
- Produce pipeline, sales and performance analysis to support reporting, business decisions and category growth.
- Represent Debenhams Group at trade shows, industry events and partner meetings, generating new business opportunities and promoting the marketplace proposition.
- Deliver an exceptional partner experience by maintaining regular communication, providing timely updates and supporting partners throughout the acquisition journey.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
- Previous experience in business development, sales, account management or a similar commercial role, ideally within ecommerce, marketplaces or retail.
- 'Can-do' entrepreneurial attitude
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Comfortable managing multiple opportunities simultaneously while maintaining excellent attention to detail.
- Ideally 2yrs experience in sales / business development
WORKING WITH US
At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you're someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you'll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers-people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact.
WHY JOIN US
Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, individual differences are valued, and people can be themselves at work - without exception.
2025 was a year of significant change for the Group. 2026 is about bold moves, real results and unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, you belong at Debenhams Group.
Our benefits include (subject to level and eligibility):
- Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance
- Access to an on-site gym and free weekly Pilates, yoga and fitness classes
- Discount across all brands
- Comprehensive wellbeing package
- Dog-friendly offices (in selected locations)
- Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
- On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks
- Free season ticket loan
#LI-LF1 #Debenhamsgroup
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Business Development Associate in Manchester employer: Debenhams
Debenhams in Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a meaningful impact through innovative CRM strategies. Our commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures that you will be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing customer engagement and retention.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Associate in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the fashion, beauty, and home retail sectors. Understanding what’s currently popular will help you engage effectively with potential partners and demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network actively within the industry by attending trade fairs and marketplace seminars. Making connections with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals for the Business Development Associate role.
✨Tip Number 3
Develop your negotiation skills by practising with friends or colleagues. Being able to confidently negotiate terms with potential partners is crucial for this role, and showcasing these skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the competitive landscape of online retail. Knowing who the key players are and what they offer can help you identify brand gaps and opportunities, which is essential for a Business Development Associate at our company.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Associate in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in sales and business development. Emphasise any previous roles where you've successfully built relationships with partners or clients, as this is crucial for the Business Development Associate position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific aspects of their transition to a digital brand that excite you, and explain how your skills align with their mission to redefine the shopping experience.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since exceptional communication skills are essential for this role, consider including examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to build productive relationships. This could be through past experiences or specific achievements.
Highlight Your Commercial Awareness:Discuss your understanding of the retail landscape and any relevant market trends. This will show that you are not only passionate about the role but also knowledgeable about the industry, which is important for a Business Development Associate.
How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research the company and its recent transition into a digital brand. Understand their mission, values, and the marketplace they operate in. This will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Sales Experience
Highlight your previous experience in office-based sales roles. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed client relationships and contributed to business growth, as this is crucial for the Business Development Associate role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Exceptional communication skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a few scenarios where you've built productive relationships or negotiated successfully.
✨Prepare for Trend Monitoring Questions
Since the role involves trend monitoring, be ready to discuss current trends in fashion, beauty, and home retailing. Show that you can identify gaps in the market and suggest strategies for outreach and negotiation with potential partners.
