At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business development and grant projects to boost agri-tech innovation.
- Company: Join CHAP, a pioneering Agri-Tech Centre transforming crop systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent networking opportunities in the agri-tech sector.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture while collaborating with top scientists and innovators.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development, grant writing, and a passion for agri-tech.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
CHAP, a UK Agri Tech Centre funded by Innovate UK, brings together leading scientists, farmers, advisors, innovators and businesses to understand industry challenges, drive research and innovation, and develop and trial solutions that transform crop systems.
We work with partners to translate and promote these solutions for market adoption and improved crop productivity.
Our mandate is to increase crop productivity for future generations through the uptake of new technologies.
Overall Job Purpose
Reporting to the Commercial Director, the Business Development Manager (BDM) will work with the Commercial Director, Commercial team, Innovation Director and Innovation team to develop and implement a strategy to build a pipeline of new business and grant funded projects to establish CHAP's market position and achieve financial growth.
This requires a proven record of successful bid writing for research and development services, experience in commercial key account management, a thorough knowledge of the sector and an understanding of CHAP's capabilities.
The BDM will work with CHAP partners, leading scientists, potential customers, collaborators and government agencies to identify opportunities across SMEs, large agrichemical companies, farmers, growers, agronomists, food retailers, seed companies and soil experts, in conjunction with the Commercial Director and Innovation Director to define short, medium and long term goals to establish areas of interest, project and income targets.
Responsibilities & Qualifications
- Develop and manage the Business Development Opportunity Programme, leading a multi talented team that operates on opportunity rather than department, guiding staff as needed
- Identify commercial business and grant opportunities; recognise potential for innovation in agriculture and the agri food sectors
- Build and maintain high level strategic key relationships in the sector to grow and leverage the network
- Develop rapport with potential new clients and collaborators and determine income targets, supporting relationships to achieve those goals
- Engage companies/businesses in collaborative research projects and identify appropriate funding sources from Innovate UK and others
- Prospect for new opportunities by networking, attending trade shows and presenting at conferences to generate business
- Actively use the capability stories and work with partners to promote CHAP in an engaging format such as third party references and case studies
- Plan persuasive approaches and pitches to convince potential clients to do business with CHAP
- Grow and retain accounts by offering new solutions, services and support where possible
- Use knowledge of other sector players to identify and develop CHAP's unique selling propositions and differentiators
- Work with the marketing team to create bespoke presentations or develop solutions and services that meet or predict clients' future needs
- Actively capture and feed back ideas from customers
- Attend sector functions such as association events and conferences, providing feedback and information on the broader sector
- Collaborate with technical staff, Innovation Hub Leads and sister agri tech centres to meet customer needs and expand use of CHAP's capabilities
- Submit regular progress reports to the Commercial Director ensuring data is accurate
- Negotiate and close business deals, write and submit grants
- Develop a deep understanding of CHAP capabilities
- Keep abreast of government developments on agri tech to assess potential impact on CHAP business
- Maintain up to date knowledge of the sector and current market conditions
- Success in Key Account Management/BDM roles
- Strong bid/grant writing skills
- Collaborative working style
- Self motivated and target driven
- Comfortable working on own initiative
- Engaging personality, able to build rapport and effective relationships quickly across a broad spectrum of people, businesses, academics and the public sector
- Successful collaborative project building and relationship sales/BDM background essential, preferably in the agri tech sector
- A scientific degree; Ph D preferred
- Experience in the sector and an established network of agri tech contacts
- Grant winning skills
- Clean driving licence
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Agri-Tech Business Development & Grants Lead
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
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✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Job Search Place Limited often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Agri-Tech Business Development & Grants Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Job Search Place Limited does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Job Search Place Limited will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Job Search Place Limited.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Job Search Place Limited.
