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- Tasks: Lead strategic business development for automotive clients, driving growth and building key relationships.
- Company: Join a reputable UK manufacturer known for quality and innovation in precision engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, potential for remote work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an ambitious team shaping the future of automotive technology and sustainability.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in business development within automotive manufacturing; strong technical and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Represent the brand at industry events and contribute to exciting new product developments.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A UK-based manufacturer of precision engineered components for the automotive industry is seeking a highly strategic, results-driven Business Development Director to drive commercial growth across domestic and international markets. This is a critical leadership position within a company that has built an exceptional reputation for quality, innovation, and on-time delivery to OEM and Tier 1 customers. With significant investment backing and ambitious growth plans, the business is poised to expand its presence across traditional ICE, EV, and off-highway sectors.
As the Business Development Director, you will take full ownership of the company’s commercial growth strategy. Working closely with the Managing Director and wider senior leadership team, you’ll be responsible for building strategic relationships with key clients, opening new revenue channels, and positioning the business as a trusted partner in complex, quality-critical engineering supply chains. This is an ideal role for a senior commercial leader with deep industry experience, strong technical understanding, and a passion for delivering sustainable, long-term business growth.
- Develop and lead the strategic business development plan for the automotive division, targeting OEMs and Tier 1 clients in the UK and Europe.
- Identify, approach, and win new high-value accounts across passenger vehicle, electric vehicle (EV), commercial vehicle, and off-highway sectors.
- Manage key relationships with technical, procurement, and C-level stakeholders across multiple regions.
- Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Finance to ensure proposals and delivery capability align with client expectations and internal capacity.
- Own the entire commercial bid process – from RFQ through to pricing strategy, negotiation, and contract close.
- Provide market intelligence to the board, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities for expansion into new territories or service lines.
- Lead the commercial input into NPI (New Product Introduction) and product development cycles, ensuring alignment with customer demand.
- Represent the brand externally at trade events, conferences, and client reviews, acting as a senior ambassador for the business.
We’re seeking a high-calibre commercial leader with a track record of building long-term partnerships and driving revenue growth in automotive manufacturing. You will be a confident strategist and hands-on operator, able to build credibility quickly both internally and externally.
Required Experience & Skills:
- 10+ years of business development or sales leadership experience in automotive manufacturing.
- Proven success in selling complex precision engineered or technical components into OEM or Tier 1 customers.
- Deep understanding of commercial models within manufacturing, including long-cycle sales processes, cost modelling, and global RFQs.
- Confident working with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, and Operations.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to manage high-value deals and long-term contracts.
- Strong technical acumen and understanding of engineering/manufacturing processes.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills – you’re credible at all levels and able to influence decision-makers.
Business Development Director employer: Hamilton Finch
Contact Detail:
Hamilton Finch Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network strategically within the automotive industry. Attend relevant trade events and conferences where you can meet key stakeholders from OEMs and Tier 1 clients. Building these relationships can give you insights into their needs and help position you as a trusted partner.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on market trends and technological advancements in the automotive sector, especially regarding electric vehicles and precision engineering. This knowledge will not only enhance your credibility but also allow you to identify new opportunities for business growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Develop a strong understanding of the commercial bid process, including pricing strategies and negotiation techniques. Being well-versed in these areas will enable you to effectively manage high-value deals and long-term contracts, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gain insights into engineering and operational capabilities. This collaboration will ensure that your proposals align with client expectations and internal capacities, making you a more effective leader in driving commercial growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in business development and automotive manufacturing. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive commercial growth and build strategic relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the automotive industry and your strategic vision for the role. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed high-value accounts and contributed to business growth.
Highlight Technical Acumen: Emphasise your technical understanding of precision engineering and manufacturing processes. This will show that you can effectively communicate with cross-functional teams and understand client needs.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of your leadership experience, particularly in managing teams and driving results. Highlight your ability to influence decision-makers and build long-term partnerships.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hamilton Finch
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Business Development Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to develop and lead strategic plans. Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in creating successful business strategies, especially in the automotive sector, and how you can apply that knowledge to drive growth for the company.
✨Highlight Relationship-Building Skills
This role requires building strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with C-level executives and technical teams, showcasing your interpersonal skills and ability to influence decision-makers.
✨Understand the Market Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the automotive industry, particularly regarding electric vehicles and precision engineering. Being able to discuss market intelligence and potential opportunities will show your proactive approach and deep understanding of the sector.
✨Demonstrate Technical Acumen
Given the technical nature of the products, it's important to convey your understanding of engineering and manufacturing processes. Prepare to discuss specific technical components you've worked with and how they relate to the company's offerings, ensuring you can speak confidently about the products and their applications.
