At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships and support motor trade businesses across Scotland.
- Company: Join the Scottish Motor Trade Association, a leading body in the automotive sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, specialist training, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping members thrive in the motor trade industry.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the Scottish Motor Trade Association
Formed in 1903, the Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) was established to “encourage, promote and protect” the interests of Scotland’s motor trade - a purpose that continues to guide us more than 120 years later. Today, the SMTA is Scotland’s largest motor trade body, representing over 1,300 members across the country. We represent the full spectrum of businesses, from the largest motor groups and franchised dealerships to small independent garages, MOT stations, and sole traders in some of the most remote parts of the country.
About the role
We’re looking for Business Development Consultants to support and engage with our members across Scotland. This is a relationship-led, advisory role focused on helping motor trade businesses get the most from their SMTA membership. You’ll act as a trusted point of contact for members within your region, providing guidance, identifying opportunities to add value, and offering specialist advice in one of the following areas:
- HR
- Health & Safety
- Consumer Law
Key responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with SMTA members
- Act as a primary point of contact for member queries and support needs
- Provide specialist advice and guidance aligned to your area of expertise (HR, Health & Safety, or Consumer Law) – training will be provided for this
- Identify and engage prospective new members, clearly communicating the value and benefits of SMTA membership
- Monitor and report on member engagement, member feedback, trends, challenges, and opportunities, and feed these back internally
- Promote SMTA services, benefits, and initiatives in a consistent and professional manner
- Support the planning and delivery of regional events, seminars, training sessions, and conferences
- Deliver or support member training sessions relevant to your skillset
- Ensure that members understand and are in compliance with relevant regulations and association policies
- Encourage best practice and support members in understanding relevant regulations and SMTA policies
Specialist training will be provided by SMTA to support your development in this role.
We’re looking for someone with:
- Strong and clear communication and relationship-building skills
- Excellent customer service skills with the ability to resolve conflict, and solve problems
- Confidence presenting, hosting events, and engaging groups
- Technologically competent – confident communicating by email, social media, Microsoft Teams, and via calls.
- Relationship management skills
- Team player – happy to support colleagues, and collaborate with others
- Proactive – will work independently and proactively make suggestions to better support members
- Experience in automotive industry or a member organisation
- Interest in HR, consumer law or health and safety
- Experience hosting events
- Sales or customer service experience
Salary is banded between £30,000 – £40,000 dependent on experience. Applications close on 15th February 2026, but may close sooner if the role receives high interest. This role will mostly be office based, but will require some travel to clients, meetings and events.
Business Development Consultant in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA)
The Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment for its Business Development Consultants. With a strong focus on employee growth, SMTA offers comprehensive training in areas such as HR, Health & Safety, and Consumer Law, ensuring that team members are well-equipped to provide valuable guidance to our diverse membership across Scotland. Additionally, the opportunity to engage with a wide range of businesses, from large motor groups to independent garages, makes this role both meaningful and rewarding, all while being part of an organisation that has been championing the motor trade for over 120 years.
Contact Details:
Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Consultant in Edinburgh
✨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!
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We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Consultant in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
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Tailor Your Message for Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA):When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA). 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!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA)
✨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 Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA) that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
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Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA) 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 Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd (SMTA)’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.
