At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sales for large DB pensions outsourcing opportunities and build strong industry relationships.
- Company: Leading Professional Services company with a focus on innovation and client success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, attractive commission, comprehensive pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team and drive meaningful change for trustees and members.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the DB pensions sector while enjoying a dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in DB pensions outsourcing and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
I am working with a leading Professional Services company in their search to hire a high‑impact Sales Director to lead the origination and conversion of large Defined Benefit (DB) pensions outsourcing opportunities, with a particular focus on run‑on schemes. This is a pivotal, senior commercial role, operating at the very top of the DB trustee ecosystem. You will be responsible for creating demand, shaping opportunities well ahead of procurement and converting complex, high‑value outsourcing mandates in a highly competitive, relationship‑led market.
The Role
- Market Leadership & Origination: Develop and execute a focused sales strategy for large DB schemes seeking run‑on and long‑term administration solutions. Build a strong pipeline of major outsourcing opportunities, shaping deals early and positioning ahead of formal procurement.
- Industry Relationships & Profile: Build trusted relationships with professional trustees, scheme trustees and chairs, TPEs, advisers and employee benefit consultants. Act as a credible market voice and represent the organisation at key industry events and forums.
- Deal Leadership & Conversion: Lead complex, high‑value sales from origination to contract close. Own the full lifecycle—qualification, bid strategy, commercial structuring, negotiation and close—while maintaining momentum through long, multi‑stakeholder processes.
- Pipeline & Performance Management: Drive disciplined pipeline management with clear visibility of progress, risk and conversion strategy. Apply structured qualification to prioritise high‑value, winnable opportunities.
- Internal Stakeholder Leadership: Orchestrate large deal pursuits by aligning client teams, product specialists, operations and commercial, pricing and legal functions. Lead high‑performing bid teams to deliver compelling, differentiated proposals.
- Strategic Positioning & Thought Leadership: Support the evolution of the DB run‑on proposition. Translate market insight into effective sales strategies and client messaging, championing strong outcomes for trustees and members.
About You
You will bring a strong track record of winning large, complex DB pensions outsourcing or administration deals, alongside deep credibility within the trustee and advisory community. Key experience and capabilities include:
- Proven success selling DB administration or outsourcing solutions.
- DB scheme dynamics and run‑on strategies.
- Trustee decision‑making processes.
- The role and influence of TPEs and professional trustees.
- Demonstrable experience managing long, multi‑stakeholder sales cycles with significant deal values.
- An established network across professional trustees, advisers, TPEs and industry influencers.
- Excellent commercial judgement, negotiation skills and deal‑structuring capability.
- The ability to lead and influence senior internal and external stakeholders.
Personal attributes:
- Highly driven, resilient and results‑focused.
- Strategic thinker with strong execution discipline.
- Comfortable operating in high‑stakes, long‑cycle environments.
- Passionate about improving outcomes for DB schemes and their members.
What’s on Offer
- Competitive base salary ranging from £75,000 to £100,000, depending on experience.
- Attractive commission structure of circa 30%, with strong earning potential.
- Comprehensive pension scheme.
- Life assurance for added peace of mind.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements, supporting a healthy work–life balance.
Sales Director – Defined Benefit Pensions Outsourcing employer: Lorien
Join a leading Professional Services company that values innovation and excellence in the Defined Benefit pensions outsourcing sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will benefit from a competitive salary, an attractive commission structure, and flexible working arrangements that promote a healthy work-life balance. Our collaborative work culture encourages strategic thinking and offers opportunities to build trusted relationships within the industry, making it an ideal environment for high-impact professionals looking to make a meaningful difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Director – Defined Benefit Pensions Outsourcing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, especially those in the DB pensions space. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you’re chatting with potential employers or at networking events, share your insights on DB schemes and run-on strategies. Position yourself as a thought leader in the field, and people will remember you when opportunities arise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your job search! Instead of waiting for roles to be posted, reach out directly to companies you admire. Express your interest in their work and how you can contribute, especially in sales leadership for DB pensions outsourcing. You never know what might come from a simple conversation!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your pipeline organised! Use tools to track your connections and follow-ups. This way, you can manage your outreach effectively and ensure you’re nurturing those important relationships. And remember, check out our website for any openings that match your skills!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Director – Defined Benefit Pensions Outsourcing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Sales Director in DB pensions outsourcing. Highlight your experience with large, complex deals and your relationships within the trustee community. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us about your passion for improving outcomes for DB schemes and how your strategic thinking has led to successful sales in the past. Keep it engaging and relevant to the role.
Showcase Your Network:Don’t forget to mention your established network across professional trustees, advisers, and TPEs. We’re looking for someone who can leverage these relationships to create demand and shape opportunities, so make sure to highlight this in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get started on this journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lorien
✨Know Your DB Pensions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Defined Benefit pensions and outsourcing solutions. Understand the dynamics of DB schemes, especially run-on strategies, as this will show your expertise and help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
Start networking with professionals in the trustee and advisory community before your interview. This could include reaching out to TPEs or advisers. Having these connections can give you insights into the company’s culture and expectations, plus it shows your proactive approach.
✨Prepare for Complex Sales Scenarios
Be ready to discuss your experience with managing long, multi-stakeholder sales cycles. Prepare specific examples of how you've led complex deals from origination to close, highlighting your negotiation skills and ability to maintain momentum through challenging processes.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
During the interview, demonstrate your strategic mindset by discussing how you would develop and execute a focused sales strategy for large DB schemes. Share your thoughts on translating market insights into effective sales strategies and client messaging, which is crucial for this role.
