At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships and support projects in the UK student accommodation sector.
- Company: Foliot Furniture, a leading sustainable furniture manufacturer expanding in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare, remote work, and 28 days paid leave.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with clear career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact in the UK market.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in sales or construction, strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
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 RoleThis 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
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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.
Business Development Manager in London employer: Foliot Furniture / Meubles
Foliot Furniture is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the UK student accommodation sector. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, team members are encouraged to enhance their skills while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of student living. The remote nature of this role provides flexibility, allowing for a healthy work-life balance while being part of a forward-thinking company committed to excellence.
Contact Details:
Foliot Furniture / Meubles Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager in London
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Business Development Manager at Foliot Furniture / Meubles, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Foliot Furniture / Meubles. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Business Development Manager. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for Foliot Furniture / Meubles:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Foliot Furniture / Meubles. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at Foliot Furniture / Meubles
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Foliot Furniture / Meubles that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Foliot Furniture / Meubles that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Foliot Furniture / Meubles’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
