Business Development Executive in Newport

At Howells, we combine a fresh and forward-thinking approach with a client-focused, local feel to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services. This is an exciting position, playing a key role in converting opportunity into revenue. Working closely with Marketing, fee earners, and the New Business Team, the role supports inbound enquiries, manages pipeline activity, and helps the firm win new work through high-quality pitches, proposals, and relationship-led business development. The role is integral to the firm’s growth strategy, contributing to the identification and pursuit of priority sectors, target clients, and referrer relationships. By bringing structure, insight, and momentum to business development activity, the Business Development Executive helps drive scalable growth, improve conversion rates, and ensure opportunities are pursued with commercial discipline.

What you'll be responsible for:

• Support new business generation by researching prospects, engaging potential clients, and helping to build and maintain a healthy sales pipeline.
• Manage and progress enquiries from initial contact through to instruction, working closely with the New Business Team and fee earners.
• Prepare and coordinate pitches, proposals, and tender submissions, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and on-time responses.
• Maintain accurate CRM records and support pipeline tracking, reporting on activity, conversion, and performance.
• Support referrer and client relationship activity, including meeting coordination, follow-ups, and tracking outcomes.
• Work collaboratively with Marketing and fee earners to align campaigns, BD activity, and growth priorities.
• Assist with market and competitor research to identify new opportunities, sectors, and targets.
• Identify opportunities to improve enquiry handling, processes, and conversion performance.

What we’re looking for:

• Experience in a business development, sales support, or client development role.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Confident communicator, comfortable working with senior stakeholders.
• Active listening skills with the ability to adapt their communication style and engage a diverse range of clients through telephone, video, and face-to-face discussions.
• Ability to produce high-quality, client-ready written materials, including proposals, pitch documents, and credentials.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Experience using data and insight to improve conversion rates and refine BD approaches.
• Commercially minded with a focus on conversion and results.
• Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
• Experience using CRM systems and managing pipelines is desirable.
• Understanding of sector-led or service-line business development approaches is desirable.
• Experience of working in a fast-paced working environment.
• Strong organisation skills with the ability to multi-task and prioritise efficiently.

What you'll receive:

• Competitive Salary
• Annual Leave: Enjoy a minimum of 23 days each holiday year, plus bank holidays and extra time off to unwind, including an additional personal day, a day off for your birthday, and a discretionary paid day during the Christmas break.
• Annual Leave Purchase Scheme: Option to buy up to 3 extra days of leave annually to support your work-life balance.
• Gym Discounts: Access discounted memberships to help you stay active and healthy.
• Growth & Development: We’re invested in your career with opportunities for learning and advancement.
• Milestone Recognition: Celebrate your dedication with recognition and awards for key milestones.
• Events: Take part in various networking, corporate, and charity events throughout the year.
• Refer a Friend Scheme: Get rewarded for referring talented friends and connections to join the team.

Successful candidates will be subject to a basic or enhanced DBS disclosure dependent on the role. Permanent employment is conditional on having a satisfactory DBS check. You will therefore be asked to disclose any unspent convictions during the recruitment process.