At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive business growth by engaging with industry partners and managing client relationships.
- Company: Join Loughborough University’s innovative UK SCALE Centre, part of the MIT Global SCALE Network.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and a competitive salary package.
- Other info: Applications close on 21st July 2025; interviews on 14th August 2025.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of supply chain innovation and talent development in the UK.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and strong relationship-building skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The University is dedicated to supporting an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment - to create better futures, together. The diverse backgrounds, characteristics and opinions within our community are our great strength and are key to our pursuit of delivering educational excellence, enterprise, research and professional services. We welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds and minoritized groups as they are currently under-represented within our community.
We recognise the value of a fulfilling and balanced work and personal life which promotes wellbeing. We seek to support colleagues in achieving this balance and have family-friendly policies, flexible working arrangements and many roles can be suitable for dynamic working arrangement. This includes considering applications to work on a part-time, flexible and job share basis wherever possible.
We are proud to be a Real Living Wage Employer—so much so that we go beyond the standard, providing additional supplementary payments at specific pay points to further support our employees' financial wellbeing. Further information about the Loughborough Real Living Wage Supplement can be found on our HR webpage .
Loughborough University is a UKVI Sponsor. Some individuals may require sponsorship to enable them to apply for a visa to provide them with the right to work in the UK. Please note certain roles are not eligible for sponsorship. For further information and eligibility please visit the UKVI website .
Job details
Job title Business Development Manager Job reference REQ260598 Date posted 14/08/2026 Application closing date 31/08/2026 Location Loughborough Package £34,000-£38,000 per annum depending on experience
Job description
What You’ll Do
We're looking for an ambitious Business Development Manager to join our small, close-knit and supportive Commercial team.
You'll be responsible for developing new business opportunities, growing existing accounts and building long-term client relationships across our venue portfolio. You'llalso lead the development of our intermediary market, managing relationships with event agencies, travel management companies and other key booking partners.
As a respected commercial leader within the business, you'll work closely with colleagues across Imago Venues to identify opportunities, develop account strategies and drive revenue growth.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and securing new business opportunities across targeted sectors
- Managing and growing a portfolio of key accounts
- Leading relationships with event agencies, travel management companies and other intermediary partners
- Building and maintaining a healthy sales pipeline
- Preparing and delivering client presentations and proposals
- Attending networking events, exhibitions and client meetings
- Working with Marketing to support sales campaigns and lead generation
- Reporting on sales activity, account growth and performance against targets
About You
We're looking for someone who is commercially minded, relationship focused and naturally curious.
You'll enjoy building connections, understanding what clients need and spotting opportunities others might miss.
We're open to applications from both experienced Business Development professionals and ambitious commercial individuals looking to take the next step in their career
You'll be motivated by delivering results and helping to grow the business.
You'll bring:
- At least 2 years' experience in sales, account management, events, hospitality or a similar commercial role
- Strong relationship building, communication and negotiation skills
- Commercial awareness and a proactive approach
- Excellent planning and organisational skills
- Experience using CRM systems
- Full UK driving licence
Experience working with event agencies, travel management companies or within the meetings and events sector would be advantageous.
About Us
Imago Venues is a leading conference, meetings and hospitality business with a national reputation for delivering exceptional events and guest experiences.
This is an exciting time to join us. Following the £4.5 million refurbishment of Burleigh Court Hotel & Conference Centre in 2024 and with refurbishment works due to begin at The Link Hotel later this year, we continue to invest in our venues and our future.
Our portfolio includes:
- Burleigh Court Hotel & Conference Centre
- Holywell Park Conference Centre
- The Link Hotel
- Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel
- Loughborough University's conference, sports and events facilities
- Loughborough University Nursery
As a Real Living Wage Employer, we're committed to creating a workplace where people genuinely enjoy coming to work.
Our values are simple:
Kind. Caring. Accountable. Sustainable. Ethical and Ambitious
What We Offer
- Salary of £34,000 - £38,000
- Performance related bonus opportunity of up to 20% of salary
- Access to company vehicles for business travel
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Additional paid leave on your birthday
- Christmas closure
- Holiday purchase scheme
- Free access to Burleigh Springs gym with discounted products and treatments
- Free meal on duty
- Free onsite parking
- 24/7 Employee assistance programme
- Pension salary sacrifice schemes
- EV salary sacrifice scheme
- Nursery salary sacrifice scheme
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
Join a business that is actively investing in its venues, committed to service excellence, and proud of its reputation as one of the UK's leading conference and events destinations.
Ready to Apply?
If you're excited by the opportunity to grow relationships, uncover opportunities and contribute to a supportive, high-performing team, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and discover what a career with Imago Venues could look like.
Application Closing Date: 31 st August 2026
Interviews: 10 th September 2026
Imago Venues are an Equal Opportunities and Disability Confident Committed Employer
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Business Development Manager in Loughborough employer: Loughborough University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of advanced battery technologies. With a strong commitment to employee growth, this PhD studentship provides not only comprehensive funding but also extensive training opportunities, making it an ideal environment for aspiring researchers to thrive and contribute to meaningful advancements in climate-resilient energy solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager in Loughborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the supply chain and logistics sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential partners and stakeholders who could be valuable contacts for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the UK SCALE Centre and its initiatives thoroughly. Understanding their current projects and goals will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in client engagement and relationship management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully fostered partnerships in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Business Development Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in the logistics and supply chain industry. Being knowledgeable about current issues will allow you to speak confidently about how the UK SCALE Centre can address these challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Business Development Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Craft a Compelling CV:Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in business development, client engagement, and relationship management. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Write a Strong Cover Letter:Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the UK SCALE Centre. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your ability to foster relationships and drive growth in a similar environment.
Follow Application Guidelines:Make sure to follow any specific application instructions provided in the job posting. This includes submitting your application before the closing date and ensuring all required documents are included.
How to prepare for a job interview at Loughborough University
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Business Development Manager, especially in the context of the UK SCALE Centre. Familiarise yourself with their mission and how your skills can contribute to bridging the gap between academic research and industry.
✨Research the Organisation
Dive deep into Loughborough University and the UK SCALE Centre. Know their recent projects, partnerships, and any challenges they face in the logistics and supply chain sector. This will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest.
✨Prepare Your Success Stories
Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to foster relationships, manage contracts, and drive business growth. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the Centre's future projects or how they measure success in their partnerships. Engaging with thoughtful questions shows your enthusiasm and strategic thinking.
