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 based in Manchester!
The Business Development Manager is responsible for driving new business growth, building strong client relationships and maximising profitable revenue opportunities across the freight forwarding portfolio. The role manages the sales process from prospecting and pipeline development through to client engagement, proposals, onboarding and long-term account growth. Working closely with operations and internal stakeholders, the role ensures clients receive commercially viable solutions and a high standard of service.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, develop and win new business opportunities through networking, cold calling, client engagement and proactive prospecting activity.
- Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline, providing timely updates on performance, pipeline activity and forecasts.
- Conduct client meetings, presentations and proposals to secure new business and support long-term client development.
- Achieve agreed sales, revenue and individual performance targets, taking ownership of activity and outcomes.
- Manage and grow existing client relationships, maintaining regular contact to support retention, high service levels and long-term partnerships.
- Identify opportunities to increase revenue, expand the service offering and develop commercially viable account growth plans.
- Prepare accurate and competitive pricing solutions, ensuring opportunities are profitable and margins are monitored effectively.
- Maintain accurate CRM records of all sales activity, opportunities, client engagement and pipeline updates.
- Work closely with operations and internal teams to ensure smooth onboarding of new clients and service delivery aligned to expectations.
- Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, maintaining professional communication throughout the sales process.
- Adapt to changing market and business requirements, identifying new ideas, service improvements and market opportunities.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of reporting structures, customer experience and business growth initiatives.
Behavioural Competencies
- Commercially driven with a strong sales mindset and focus on profitable growth.
- Self-motivated, target-focused and able to take ownership of individual performance.
- Proactive approach to identifying and securing new opportunities.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with clients and stakeholders.
- Strong negotiation and influencing ability, with confidence presenting proposals and solutions.
- Organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage multiple priorities.
- Resilient and able to perform effectively under pressure.
- Adaptable and committed to continuous personal and professional development.
Key Skills and Relevant Qualifications
- Experience in business development, sales, account management or freight forwarding sales.
- Ability to generate leads, build pipelines, convert opportunities and develop long-term client relationships.
- Strong commercial awareness, including pricing, margin performance, revenue growth and profitability.
- Experience preparing proposals, delivering presentations and managing client meetings.
- Ability to use CRM or sales systems to maintain accurate records and report on sales activity and performance.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively with operations and internal teams.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, influencing and organisational skills.
- Understanding of freight forwarding services and customer requirements would be advantageous.
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.
