At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth in the education and catering sector while enhancing customer relationships.
- Company: HCL, a leading contract caterer focused on nutritious meals for children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and health benefits.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven team with significant career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's wellbeing through innovative food solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in food service sales and strong communication skills required.
Increase your chances of reaching the interview stage by reading the complete job description and applying promptly.
We\'re passionate about making food a positive part of every child\'s educational journey.
We\'re seeking a commercially astute and passionate Business Development Manager to spearhead our growth strategy across London and the South of England, whilst enhancing customer retention in Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.
This is a pivotal role where you\'ll expand our market presence, develop compelling tender submissions, and represent HCL at key industry events.
Key Responsibilities Commercial Strategy & Growth Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of new business opportunities Drive customer retention through strategic referrals, CRM optimisation, and targeted networking Elevate brand awareness and position HCL as the partner of choice for potential clients Manage budgets and allocate resources in alignment with our sales strategy Menu Development & Marketing Collaboration Partner with our Executive Chef and Marketing team to craft innovative menu offerings and promotional campaigns Design engaging themed food days and diverse cuisine concepts that inspire students Champion best-in-class nutritional standards across all age groups Tender Management & Stakeholder Relations Lead comprehensive tender responses with compelling presentations and competitive financial packages Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including school leadership, parents, and consultants Ensure all tender submissions exceed expectations and are delivered on schedule Presentations & Industry Representation Deliver persuasive sales presentations and serve as HCL\'s ambassador at industry events Represent our brand values and demonstrate our unique value proposition to prospective and existing partners Deal Closure & Analysis Collaborate with the Head of Sales & Growth to create winning proposals Analyse market feedback to continuously refine our offerings and improve success rates Partner with Operations to secure renewals of key expiring contracts What We\'re Looking For A dynamic commercial professional with genuine passion for children\'s nutrition and wellbeing Demonstrable experience in food service sales and tender-driven business development Results-orientated mindset with strong \'hunter\' instincts and robust financial acumen Confident presenter with exceptional communication and networking capabilities Proficiency in CRM systems, MS Office suite, and tender management processes Highly organised self-starter capable of meeting demanding deadlines independently Why Choose HCL? Competitive salary package with performance-based rewards Mission-driven environment where you\'ll directly impact children\'s wellbeing Values-led organisation committed to quality, sustainability, and positive impact Strategic growth role offering significant career development opportunities Our Commitment HCL champions diversity and inclusion in our workplace.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.
All team members are expected to prioritise health and safety for themselves and their colleagues.
Benefits Package Performance bonus scheme Car allowance Company pension contribution Free on-site parking Comprehensive health & wellbeing programme Private medical insurance Flexible hybrid working arrangements Ready to make a difference in children\'s lives whilst driving commercial success? If you have the skills and experience to be our next Business Development Manager, we\'d love to hear from you.
Apply today and join a team that\'s transforming school food experiences across the region.d02fcfcb-6df4-40ee-95cf-3eb059ce3173
Business Development Manager – Education & Catering Sector employer: HCL
HCL is an exceptional employer that offers a competitive salary package and performance-based rewards, all within a mission-driven environment dedicated to enhancing children's wellbeing through nutritious meals. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, HCL fosters a values-led culture that prioritises quality and sustainability, while providing significant career development opportunities in a strategic growth role. Join us in making a meaningful impact on children's lives while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager – Education & Catering Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events and connect with people in the education and catering sectors. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for children's nutrition! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your commitment to improving kids' wellbeing through food. It’s a big deal for them!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those presentations! If you land an interview, be ready to showcase your ideas on menu development and marketing strategies. Bring your A-game and demonstrate how you can elevate their brand.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you're keen and makes it easier for us to keep track of your journey with HCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager – Education & Catering Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Show Your Passion for Nutrition:We’re all about making food a positive part of children’s education, so let that passion shine through in your application! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to children’s nutrition and wellbeing. We want to see your enthusiasm!
Highlight Your Commercial Acumen:As a Business Development Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your commercial savvy. Use your application to showcase your experience in food service sales and tender-driven business development. Give us examples of how you’ve driven growth and retained customers in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be on your way to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at HCL
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into HCL's mission and values. Understand their focus on children's nutrition and wellbeing, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Achievements
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in business development, especially in the food service sector. Highlight any successful tender submissions or innovative marketing strategies you've implemented. Numbers speak volumes, so if you can quantify your achievements, do it!
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about HCL's growth strategy and how they measure success in customer retention. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you insight into whether the company is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be delivering persuasive sales presentations, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock presentations with friends or family to refine your delivery and ensure you come across as a confident ambassador for HCL.
