Business Development Manager in Reading

Business Development Manager in Reading

Reading Full-Time 50000 - 65000 ÂŁ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive business growth in aerospace by developing sales strategies and nurturing client relationships.
  • Company: Leading aerospace engineering firm with a focus on innovation and quality.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and health benefits.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and modern work environment.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in the aerospace industry.
  • Qualifications: Experience in business development or technical sales, especially in aerospace or defence.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 ÂŁ per year.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Business Development Manager to join a leading aerospace engineering and manufacturing organisation. The role will play a key part in expanding market presence across the Midlands and beyond, with a strategic focus on positioning the business as a preferred manufacturing partner to OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.

Operating with a high level of autonomy, you will be responsible for delivering a robust sales strategy, developing new business opportunities, and strengthening existing customer relationships within the aerospace, defence, and precision engineering sectors.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and deliver a regional business development and sales strategy aligned with company objectives.
  • Generate, qualify, and convert new business leads, with a strong “hunter” mindset.
  • Revitalise dormant accounts and grow revenue from existing customers.
  • Act as the primary commercial contact for customers, representing the voice of the customer internally.
  • Manage the full sales lifecycle, including RFQs, bid/no-bid decisions, pricing, contract reviews, and commercial negotiations.
  • Prepare and submit sales proposals and quotations, ensuring technical and commercial accuracy.
  • Maintain accurate customer sales profiles, forecasts, and KPIs, including win/loss data and profitability.
  • Provide solution-focused technical advice relating to CNC machining and precision engineered components.
  • Support new product introduction activities, including handover to operations and monitoring through contract life.
  • Build and maintain long-term customer relationships through regular engagement and site visits.
  • Represent the company at trade shows, exhibitions, and networking events.
Skills, Experience & Attributes
  • Proven experience in business development or technical sales within aerospace manufacturing, machining, automotive, aeronautical, or defence sectors.
  • Strong understanding of bespoke CNC machined components and precision engineering processes.
  • Experience working with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
  • Knowledge of quality and regulatory frameworks (e.g. AS9100, FAIR, ISO 9001).
  • Commercially astute with the ability to assess business cases and negotiate effectively.
  • Confident in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Highly self-motivated, organised, and capable of managing workload autonomously.
  • Willingness to travel, with a full UK driving licence and valid passport.
Benefits
  • Competitive and negotiable salary (DOE).
  • Company car or car allowance.
  • Hybrid / remote working.
  • Generous annual leave.
  • Occupational Health provision.
  • Health Care Cash Plan.
  • Life Assurance.
  • Employee Referral Scheme.

A build-to-print aerospace engineering specialist with capabilities across metallics & fabrication, composites, surface treatments, and assemblies. Operating from a modern centre of excellence, we support leading aerospace and defence OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, delivering long-term partnerships built on quality, precision, and reliability.

Business Development Manager in Reading employer: SJEngineering | SJExecutive Partners

Join a leading aerospace engineering and manufacturing organisation that values innovation and excellence, offering a competitive salary and a flexible home-based working environment. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills in a dynamic industry while enjoying generous benefits such as a company car or allowance, health care cash plan, and life assurance. Our collaborative work culture fosters long-term relationships with customers and encourages professional development, making it an ideal place for motivated individuals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
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Contact Detail:

SJEngineering | SJExecutive Partners Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager in Reading

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the aerospace and defence sectors. Attend trade shows, exhibitions, and local meet-ups to make those valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! When you’re chatting with potential employers or contacts, don’t be shy about sharing your knowledge of CNC machining and precision engineering. This will help position you as a go-to person in the field.

✨Tip Number 3

Follow up! After meeting someone or having an interview, drop them a quick email to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest. It keeps you on their radar and shows you’re genuinely keen on the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting roles waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!

We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager in Reading

Business Development
Technical Sales
Sales Strategy Development
Lead Generation
Customer Relationship Management
Commercial Negotiation
CNC Machining Knowledge
Precision Engineering Processes
Understanding of OEMs and Tier 1 Suppliers
Knowledge of Quality Frameworks (e.g. AS9100, ISO 9001)
Reading and Interpreting Engineering Drawings
Excellent Communication Skills
Self-Motivation
Organisational Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in aerospace and technical sales, and show us how you can help expand our market presence.

Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your successes! Include specific examples of how you've generated leads or revitalised accounts in previous roles. Numbers speak volumes!

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at SJEngineering | SJExecutive Partners

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of aerospace manufacturing and CNC machining. Familiarise yourself with the company's products and services, as well as their key clients. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the industry and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.

✨Showcase Your Sales Strategy

Prepare to discuss your approach to developing and delivering a sales strategy. Think about specific examples where you've successfully generated leads or revitalised dormant accounts. Be ready to explain how you would apply this experience to the role and align it with the company's objectives.

✨Build Rapport

Since this role involves maintaining long-term customer relationships, practice building rapport during the interview. Use active listening skills and engage with your interviewer by asking insightful questions about the company’s current projects and future goals. This shows that you’re not just focused on the job but also on the company’s success.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to be asked technical questions related to engineering drawings, specifications, and quality frameworks like AS9100 and ISO 9001. Brush up on these topics and be prepared to discuss how your technical knowledge can benefit the company and its clients.

Business Development Manager in Reading
SJEngineering | SJExecutive Partners
Location: Reading

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