Business Development Manager

Foliot Furniture is a leading North American manufacturer of high-quality, sustainably produced furniture, with operations in Quebec and the United States.

As part of our continued international expansion, we are growing our presence across the UK student accommodation sector.

With secured projects underway in London and Scotland, and active engagement across developers, operators, contractors, and university estates teams, we are building a strong foundation in the UK market.

We are now looking to appoint a UK-based Sales Manager to support this growth—working across both Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and university on-campus accommodation.

This role reports to the UK Sales Director and will be instrumental in strengthening relationships, supporting live opportunities, and helping position Foliot as a trusted long-term delivery partner in the UK.

The Role

This is a hybrid commercial and client-facing role, well suited to someone who understands both the client side (developers, operators, universities) and the delivery side (contractors, procurement, construction process).

You will act as a key interface between stakeholders—helping clients develop schemes, navigate procurement, and confidently deliver projects using a North American manufacturing partner.

What You’ll Do

• Build and manage relationships across

• Developers and PBSA operators
• University estates and accommodation teams
• Main contractors and delivery partners
• Support the progression of opportunities from early engagement through to contract award and delivery
• Contribute to bids, proposals, and procurement processes (JCT and frameworks)
• Provide practical, solutions-led input to support both design intent and buildability
• Assist in managing contractor and client expectations around programme, logistics, and risk mitigation
• Attend meetings, site visits, and presentations alongside the UK Sales Director
• Identify and develop repeat opportunities, frameworks, and long-term partnerships
• Act as a trusted point of contact for stakeholders during pre-construction and live phases
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure alignment between UK requirements and North American delivery
• Represent Foliot at industry events and within the wider accommodation sector
• Who This Role Suits

We are open to candidates from either a commercial/client-facing background or a contractor/delivery background, including:

• Sales or business development professionals within FF&E, fit-out, or interiors
• Individuals from main contractors or subcontractors looking to move into a client-facing, strategic role
• Those with experience working with PBSA operators or university estates teams
• Ambitious individuals looking to step into a growing, market-facing role with clear progression

What You Bring

• Understanding of the UK student accommodation sector (PBSA and/or university)
• Experience engaging with multiple stakeholders across the project lifecycle
• Awareness of construction processes, procurement routes, and contract environments
• Strong relationship-building skills and commercial awareness
• Ability to balance client expectations with delivery realities
• Proactive, organised, and comfortable operating in a growing and evolving business
• A collaborative approach and willingness to take ownership

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of experience in sales, construction, fit-out, or related sectors
• Exposure to FF&E, manufacturing, interiors, or project delivery advantageous
• Experience with JCT contracts and/or public-sector frameworks beneficial but not essential
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel

Why Join Foliot?

• Be part of a high-growth UK expansion, with strong market traction already established
• Work closely with the UK Sales Director and play a key role in the company’s continued growth
• Gain exposure to both private PBSA developments and public-sector university projects
• Build and strengthen relationships with clients, contractors, and delivery partners across the industry
• Clear opportunities for career progression as the UK team continues to expand
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial environment with direct access to leadership
• Competitive pension plan through NEST: 3% employer contribution matched by 5% employee contribution
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage including vision and dental benefits through the National Health Services (NHS) framework
• 28 days of paid annual leave, including public holidays
• Fully remote working environment with travel required for client and project visits

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking to step into a role that combines relationship-building, commercial input, and project involvement, and want to be part of an international business establishing itself in the UK—this is an excellent opportunity to make a tangible impact.

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