At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive new employer partnerships and generate apprenticeship growth for the University.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on education and skills development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities to make a real impact.
- Other info: Flexible working with travel opportunities and excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping the future of apprenticeships and learner opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a results‑driven, commercially minded professional with a passion for education and skills? We are looking for an ambitious Business Development Officer to join our Apprenticeships and Business Engagement team. This is a key role where you will drive new employer partnerships and generate apprenticeship growth, contributing directly to the University's strategic ambitions. You will be responsible for identifying and securing new employer opportunities, converting high‑quality leads into apprenticeship enrolments, and working closely with our Account Management team to build lasting relationships. Your work will deliver sustainable revenue growth while creating meaningful opportunities for learners and employers.
Main Responsibilities
- Identify New Opportunities: Proactively generate and secure new apprenticeship sales in line with the business strategy, consistently delivering against targets and KPIs.
- New Employer Acquisition: Engage, secure and onboard new employer partners, ensuring a smooth transition to the Account Management team for long‑term relationship development.
- Market Insight & Engagement: Stay informed about developments within the apprenticeship sector and represent the University at networking events, roadshows and industry forums to promote our offer and expand employer engagement.
- Negotiate and Close Deals: Use a consultative sales approach to convert leads into confirmed learner enrolments, building value‑led solutions for employers.
- Pipeline and Reporting Management: Maintain an accurate and robust pipeline of apprenticeship starts, ensuring all CRM systems and reporting tools are kept up to date.
- Collaborate for Success: Work closely with internal teams, particularly Apprenticeship Account Managers, as well as external partners, to achieve shared business development goals.
Qualifications
- Proven business‑development success: Demonstrable experience in business development or account management, with a track record of meeting or exceeding targets.
- Apprenticeship & funding knowledge: A solid understanding of the apprenticeship sector, work‑based learning models and funding mechanisms.
- Strong communication & negotiation skills: Confident in building relationships with employer stakeholders and influencing outcomes.
- Stakeholder management: Experience working with a wide range of organisations to build and maintain effective partnerships.
- Commercial & strategic thinking: Ability to identify opportunities, think strategically and deliver practical solutions.
- Highly organised & self‑motivated: Comfortable managing competing priorities independently while contributing effectively to a wider team.
- Digital & IT capability: Proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM / sales reporting tools.
- Flexibility & travel: Willingness to travel regionally as required, with a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
- Qualification requirement: Educated to degree level or equivalent professional qualification or relevant experience.
Business Development Officer in Stoke-on-Trent employer: Staffordshire University
As a leading educational institution, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our Business Development Officers play a crucial role in shaping the future of apprenticeships, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in a vibrant community, we offer competitive benefits and a supportive environment that encourages creativity and meaningful contributions to both learners and employers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Officer in Stoke-on-Trent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, roadshows, and forums to meet potential employer partners. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing those apprenticeship deals.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay informed about the apprenticeship sector. Knowledge is power, and being up-to-date on trends will help us engage effectively with employers and showcase our value.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your consultative sales approach. When talking to leads, focus on building value-led solutions that meet their needs. This will help us convert those leads into confirmed enrolments.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your pipeline organised! Use CRM tools to track your progress and ensure you're always on top of your targets. A well-managed pipeline is key to driving sustainable revenue growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Officer in Stoke-on-Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Business Development Officer. Highlight your experience in business development and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to meet targets and build partnerships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and skills, and explain how your background aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. Be sure to mention specific examples of your success in securing new employer partnerships.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to engage and influence. Use clear, concise language and demonstrate your negotiation skills through your examples.
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 you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffordshire University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the apprenticeship sector and funding mechanisms. Being able to discuss current trends and challenges will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also passionate about the industry.
✨Showcase Your Success
Prepare specific examples of your past business development successes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate how you've met or exceeded targets in previous roles. This will help demonstrate your results-driven mindset.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current partnerships and express genuine interest in their goals. This will highlight your strong communication skills and ability to engage with stakeholders.
✨Be Organised
Show that you can manage competing priorities by discussing how you keep track of your pipeline and reporting. Mention any CRM tools you're familiar with and how you use them to maintain accurate records. This will reassure them of your organisational skills.
