At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive commercial growth through client relationships and sales presentations.
- Company: Utilita Bowl is the premier cricket, music, and leisure venue on the south coast.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, discounts, free parking, and performance incentives.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team at a leading venue with exciting events like the Ashes!
- Qualifications: Sales experience and strong communication skills are essential; sports passion is a bonus.
- Other info: Opportunity to represent Utilita Bowl at major networking events.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
McBride Sport are proud to be working on behalf of Utilita Bowl in their search for a confident, proactive Business Development Manager to drive commercial growth across hospitality and match day advertising. Utilita Bowl is the south coast’s leading international cricket, music, and leisure destination – home to Hampshire Cricket, Southern Brave, and host to major events like the Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2026 and the Men’s Ashes in 2027.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Generate new business and develop existing client relationships
- Present hospitality and advertising opportunities with confidence and clarity
- Lead venue tours and face-to-face sales meetings
- Represent Utilita Bowl at commercial and networking events
- Deliver outstanding account management and client service
- Work across teams to support seamless sales operations and event delivery
- Manage hospitality sales inventory and liaise with Seat Unique
- Track sales performance and contribute to ongoing strategy
What We’re Looking For
- Proven track record in sales or business development
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Proactive, motivated, and well-organised
- Able to work independently and overcome challenges
Bonus If You Bring
- Experience in sport, events, or hospitality sales
- Familiarity with CRM systems, Secutix, or Seat Unique
- A passion for sport—especially cricket
What’s In It for You
- 25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays
- Complimentary tickets to all Hampshire Cricket fixtures
- Discounts across Utilita Bowl – including spa and restaurant
- Free on-site parking
- Competitive basic + performance-based incentives
Business Development Manager employer: McBride Sport
Contact Detail:
McBride Sport Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Utilita Bowl and its offerings. Understanding their hospitality and advertising opportunities will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to their commercial growth.
✨Tip Number 2
Network within the sports and events industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums where you can connect with professionals in the field, as this could lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for cricket and sports during conversations. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate that you are genuinely invested in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous sales successes in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've generated new business or developed client relationships, as this will highlight your suitability for the Business Development Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in sales or business development, particularly in the sports, events, or hospitality sectors. Use specific examples to demonstrate your track record of generating new business and developing client relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sport, especially cricket, and explains why you are the perfect fit for the Business Development Manager role. Mention your proactive approach and strong interpersonal skills, and how they align with Utilita Bowl's goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication skills and ability to work independently. If you have experience with CRM systems like Secutix or Seat Unique, be sure to mention it as it could give you an edge over other candidates.
Showcase Your Achievements: Include quantifiable achievements in your application, such as sales targets met or exceeded, successful client relationships built, or events managed. This will help demonstrate your capability to drive commercial growth effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at McBride Sport
✨Showcase Your Sales Success
Be prepared to discuss your proven track record in sales or business development. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully generated new business or developed existing client relationships, as this will demonstrate your capability to drive commercial growth.
✨Know the Venue Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with Utilita Bowl and its offerings. Understanding the venue's unique selling points, such as its role in major events like the Women’s Cricket World Cup and the Men’s Ashes, will help you present hospitality and advertising opportunities with confidence.
✨Demonstrate Your Interpersonal Skills
Since strong interpersonal and communication skills are crucial for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and engagingly. Be ready to showcase how you've effectively managed client relationships and delivered outstanding account management in previous roles.
✨Express Your Passion for Sport
If you have a passion for sport, especially cricket, make sure to convey that during the interview. Employers appreciate candidates who are genuinely enthusiastic about the industry, as it often translates into better performance and commitment.