At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive new business and build relationships in the shipping container market.
- Company: Join one of Suffolk's fastest growing independent businesses.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for significant personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Be a key player in expanding our market presence and making an impact.
- Qualifications: HIAB qualification and class 1 licence required; sales experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30150 - 36850 £ per year.
Our people are well motivated, enthusiastic and determined to provide a very high level of service in all areas and we encourage them to take responsibility in line with their experience and training.
Each year we produce detailed training needs analysis, identify any areas for improvement and invest heavily in providing relevant courses.
As a constantly growing company we like to appoint from within whenever possible.
This formula has worked very successfully and we have seen considerable company growth since 2002, including being recognised by Future50 as one of East Anglia's 50 fastest growing businesses.
Training in the lifting operations specifically related to our products and customers can be given, but a current HIAB qualification combined with a class 1 licence is essential for this current position.
Working alongside another Shipping Container Specialist, you will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, developing key customer relationships, winning new accounts, and driving significant growth within one of the company's most important product categories.
This is not purely an account management role.
We are looking for someone who enjoys winning new business, picking up the phone, opening doors, and turning opportunities into revenue.
You will be expected to develop a deep understanding of the shipping container market, actively target high-value sectors, and build a pipeline capable of delivering sustained growth.
Portable Space is one of Suffolk's fastest growing independently owned businesses.
We provide portable accommodation and storage solutions across many different sectors throughout the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- New Business Development
- Generate new sales opportunities through proactive outbound activity.
- Identify and pursue opportunities within target sectors including: Self‑storage, Construction, Infrastructure, Agriculture, Local authorities, Schools and education, Events and hospitality and Container resellers and traders.
- Build relationships with decision‑makers and key stakeholders.
- Conduct outbound prospecting through telephone, email, Linked In, networking, and referrals.
- Develop a pipeline of future opportunities and key accounts.
- Secure new customers and increase market share.
- Achieve and exceed sales, margin and activity targets.
- Maximise every enquiry through effective qualification and follow‑up.
- Identify upselling and cross‑selling opportunities.
- Increase conversion rates through disciplined sales processes.
- Produce and follow up quotations with urgency and persistence.
- Deliver profitable growth rather than simply processing enquiries.
- Account Development
- Develop long‑term relationships with trade customers and repeat buyers.
- Grow spend from existing customers through regular contact and account reviews.
- Identify opportunities for larger orders, repeat business, and framework agreements.
- Build strategic relationships with customers capable of generating recurring revenue.
- Container Category Specialist
- Become an expert across: New containers, Used containers, Refrigerated containers, Tunnel containers, Open‑side containers, Modified containers and Bespoke conversion projects.
- Monitor competitor activity, pricing, products and market trends.
- Provide commercial feedback on opportunities for growth.
- Work with colleagues to continuously improve sales performance within the container category.
- Customer Experience
- Deliver outstanding service from first enquiry through to delivery.
- Manage customer expectations and maintain regular communication.
- Work closely with transport and operations teams to ensure successful project delivery.
- Resolve customer issues professionally and efficiently.
- Key Performance Indicators
Success in this role will be measured against
Revenue generated, Gross profit achieved, New accounts won, Conversion rate, Outbound calls completed, New opportunities created, Value of sales pipeline, Repeat customer growth, CRM utilisation and pipeline accuracy and Customer satisfaction.
Experience
- Proven sales and business development experience.
- Strong track record of winning new business.
- Comfortable making outbound calls and building relationships.
- Excellent negotiation and closing skills.
- Commercially aware and target driven.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Experience using CRM systems.
- Resilient, competitive and self‑motivated.
- Shipping containers.
- Portable buildings.
- Modular construction.
- Construction products.
- Plant, equipment or asset hire.
- Transport and logistics.
What We're Looking For
- Enjoys winning business.
- Thrives on hitting targets.
- Is commercially hungry and ambitious.
- Takes ownership of their pipeline.
- Follows opportunities through to completion. Is confident building relationships with customers at all levels.
- Wants to become a recognised expert within the container industry.
- What Success Looks Like
Within 12 months you will
- Be recognised as one of Portable Space's container specialists.
- Have built a strong pipeline of new and repeat business.
- Exceed agreed revenue and margin targets.
- Generate sustained growth within your customer base.
- Play a significant role in expanding Portable Space's position within the UK container market.
This role would suit a driven salesperson, business development executive, account manager or BDM who enjoys creating opportunities, winning new customers and achieving ambitious sales targets.
Previous experience within the portable buildings, modular construction, shipping container, or wider temporary accommodation industry would be a distinct advantage, enabling the successful candidate to make an immediate impact and develop new business opportunities more quickly.
Highly recommend!
I rarely leave a review but you guys went above a beyond so you deserve it.
I wish all companies were like you.
From customer service to delivery driver everyone was very helpful.
Thank you for being so professional and understanding!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Shipping Container Specialist in Stowmarket employer: Portable Space Limited
At Portable Space, we pride ourselves on being one of Suffolk's fastest growing independently owned businesses, offering a dynamic work environment where our employees are encouraged to take ownership and responsibility in their roles. With a strong focus on professional development, we invest heavily in training and promote from within, ensuring that our team members have ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and success, making us an excellent employer for those looking to thrive in the shipping container industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shipping Container Specialist in Stowmarket
✨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 Shipping Container Specialist at Portable Space Limited, 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 Portable Space Limited. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Shipping Container Specialist. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Shipping Container Specialist in Stowmarket
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 Portable Space Limited:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Portable Space Limited. 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 Portable Space Limited
✨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 Portable Space Limited 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 Portable Space Limited 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 Portable Space Limited’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.