At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive local business growth by building relationships and promoting VWG vehicles.
- Company: Top automotive retailer in the UK with a focus on people and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the automotive industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in B2B sales, strong communication skills, and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are one of the top three automotive retailers in the UK, proudly representing 32 manufacturer brands, selling a huge range of new and used vehicles from over 150 dealerships across the UK and Ireland. We believe our people are our greatest asset, and we’re committed to recognising the valuable contribution each person makes. That’s why we continue to invest in a leading rewards and benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing, and life outside of work.
We are looking for a driven and commercially focused Local Business Development Manager to represent Volkswagen in Preston. This role is responsible for developing and managing relationships with local businesses, promoting VWG vehicles and mobility solutions, and delivering new and repeat business sales.
The Role
- Act as the key point of contact for business customers, identifying opportunities, building long‑term partnerships and providing a premium customer experience.
- Work closely with internal sales and aftersales teams to maximise business growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Proactively identify, develop and manage local business and fleet opportunities.
- Build strong relationships with new and existing business customers.
- Promote BMW business vehicles, finance solutions and mobility products.
- Manage the full sales process from prospecting through to delivery.
- Prepare and present tailored proposals and quotations.
- Maintain accurate records of activity and pipeline using CRM systems.
- Achieve agreed sales targets and key performance indicators.
About You
- Proven experience in business‑to‑business sales or business development.
- Strong commercial awareness and negotiation skills.
- Confident, professional communicator with a customer‑focused approach.
- Highly motivated, self‑driven and organised.
- Full UK driving licence.
Core Benefits
- Competitive salaries with structured pay scales and progression as you grow within the business.
- Generous annual leave that increases with your length of service.
- Enhanced family leave, including 6 months’ full pay for maternity and adoption leave, and 2 weeks’ full pay for paternity leave.
- Access to Techscheme for discounted technology purchases with flexible payments.
- Eyecare vouchers to help cover vision care needs.
- Smart Health – 24/7 access to GP services to support your mental and physical wellbeing.
- Dental insurance for everyday dental care and unexpected treatments.
- Optional critical illness cover for peace of mind during life's most challenging moments.
Financial Wellbeing
- MyView PayNow – access a portion of your pay as you earn, with features to stream, save, and track your money through a user‑friendly app.
- Free will writing services to help plan for the future.
- Flexible life assurance options and partner life assurance for added protection.
- Discounted gym memberships to support an active lifestyle.
- Travel insurance to help you explore with confidence.
- Access to home and technology vouchers bYond card and a wide range of exclusive retail and lifestyle discounts.
Lookers and Charles Hurst are an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to a working environment that is free from discrimination, is inclusive, and empowers our people to bring their whole self to work and reach their full potential.
Local Business Development Manager Preston, England, United Kingdom employer: Lookers plc
As one of the top three automotive retailers in the UK, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where our employees are valued as our greatest asset. Located in Preston, the Local Business Development Manager role offers competitive salaries, generous benefits, and ample opportunities for career progression, all while promoting a healthy work-life balance with no weekend hours. Join us to build meaningful relationships with local businesses and contribute to our commitment to excellence in customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Business Development Manager Preston, England, United Kingdom
✨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 Local Business Development Manager Preston, England, United Kingdom at Lookers plc, 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 Lookers plc. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Local Business Development Manager Preston, England, United Kingdom. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Local Business Development Manager Preston, England, United Kingdom
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 Lookers plc:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Lookers plc. 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 Lookers plc
✨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 Lookers plc 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 Lookers plc 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 Lookers plc’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.
