At The Cardinal Partnership, we're not just a company; we're a partnership in both name and nature. As the world's largest employee-owned logistics organisation, we proudly house two beloved brands, Cardinal Global Logistics and Far Logistics. When you join our team, you become a partner in our collective success.
People have always been at the heart of what we do and we have an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that has transformed a modest £15,000 investment into an industry-leading enterprise. We tailor these services to meet the precise needs of our 6000+ customers.
Join us in providing exceptional service and shaping the next chapter of our partnership journey. In return, you'll enjoy a competitive salary and enhanced benefits.
We are looking for a Business Development Manager to join our team in Cardinal Heathrow.
The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, developing and securing new business opportunities while growing and retaining existing client accounts. The role builds strong relationships with prospects, clients and internal teams, develops a sustainable sales pipeline and delivers profitable growth in line with agreed targets. Working across the relevant business area, the role promotes Cardinal services, supports the development of new solutions and ensures a high standard of customer care throughout the sales lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Generate new business opportunities through networking, cold calling, appointments, telesales, customer meetings, Teams or Zoom calls and other prospecting activity.
- Build, manage and develop a portfolio of new and existing clients, maintaining regular contact to support retention, client satisfaction and long-term growth.
- Achieve profit growth and sales targets through effective commercial management of new and existing accounts in line with the BDM scheme or agreed sales objectives.
- Develop and maintain a strong sales pipeline, identifying strategic prospects, underdeveloped accounts and opportunities to expand Cardinal services.
- Prepare, present and follow up proposals, pricing and presentations, ensuring competitive, accurate and timely information while protecting profitability.
- Update the CRM or relevant system with accurate records of calls, visits, opportunities, pricing activity and sales progress.
- Prepare and submit monthly reports, providing clear updates on activity, pipeline, client development, targets and performance against KPIs.
- Work with internal teams including sales, marketing, operations, trade managers and account managers to align account strategies, onboard new clients and support service delivery.
- Assist with the development and implementation of new services, identifying innovative solutions that meet customer needs and support business growth.
- Monitor competitors, suppliers and market activity to ensure Cardinal remains competitive and commercially aware.
- Control sales-related expenses and contribute to achieving budget, profitability and commercial objectives where applicable.
Behavioural Competencies
- Positive, proactive and enthusiastic approach, with strong personal drive and motivation to succeed.
- Commercially focused and results-driven, with the ability to identify opportunities and convert prospects into secured business.
- Strong interpersonal skills, able to build trust, influence positively and develop effective relationships with clients and colleagues.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, including active listening, questioning and clear written and verbal communication.
- Collaborative team player who contributes professionally to formal and informal discussions and works with others to find solutions.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues early, respond promptly and take responsibility in difficult situations.
- Able to manage conflict constructively, generate new ideas and maintain professionalism when dealing with challenges.
- Organised and accountable, with the ability to manage multiple opportunities, priorities and reporting requirements.
Key Skills and Relevant Qualifications
- Experience in business development, sales, account management or strategic client development.
- Ability to generate leads, build pipelines, secure new clients and grow existing accounts.
- Strong commercial awareness, including pricing, profitability, competitor monitoring and proposal development.
- Experience using CRM systems or sales platforms to record activity, manage opportunities and report performance.
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with prospects, clients, suppliers and internal stakeholders at different levels.
- Strong presentation, networking, negotiation, organisation and reporting skills.
- Ability to identify customer needs and recommend practical, innovative solutions aligned to Cardinal services.
- A Levels, degree or equivalent experience may be beneficial depending on the business area.
We hire individuals not just based on their experience and skills, but also on their character. Our team members are enthusiastic, passionate, and dedicated to finding solutions for our clients. We believe in fostering a fun and supportive work environment, but above all, we are committed to exceeding expectations.
At The Cardinal Partnership, every employee is empowered to reach and surpass their potential. We remain steadfast in creating enduring business relationships and achieving long-term, sustainable success.
If this opportunity aligns with your ambitions, don't wait! Apply today to become a part of our thriving team. Keep in mind that if we receive a high volume of applications, we may close the role early, so act promptly to avoid any disappointment.
