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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial growth and develop new revenue streams for the Royal Highland Show.
- Company: Join RHASS, Scotland’s leading agricultural charity with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Scottish agriculture while making impactful connections.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of exciting events and contribute to rural community support.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
About RHASS
RHASS is Scotland’s agricultural charity and is the leading voice for Scottish agriculture and the rural community. Founded in 1784 with the guiding principles to promote the regeneration of rural Scotland, those principles still ring true today. Today and in the future, the charity strives for new ways to preserve, educate and support the industry and people who live and work in the Scottish countryside, by uniting communities and investing in innovation, education, wellbeing and the environment. RHASS is the charity who puts on the Royal Highland Show at its home venue the Royal Highland Centre, showcasing the very best in farming, food and rural life at Scotland’s largest outdoor event.
The role
This is an exciting new role within RHASS, where you will have the opportunity to shape the direction of the role. The Business Development Manager will lead the growth of commercial revenue across the Royal Highland Show (RHS), focusing on new income streams, high‑value partnerships, and diversification of commercial activity. This is a strategic and externally focused role responsible for market development, corporate engagement, and long‑term commercial planning, ensuring that all opportunities align with RHASS’s mission and brand. You will manage the full commercial development cycle—market mapping, lead generation, proposition design, negotiation, contracting and account management—while maintaining close working relationships with various departments to ensure alignment and support across commercial activity.
Strategic Business Development
- Develop and deliver a commercial growth strategy aligned with RHASS and RHS priorities.
- Work with the Head of Show to develop and implement a long‑term commercial strategy aligned with RHS’s goals and priorities.
- Identify and develop new commercial opportunities that sit outside existing commercial models, adding incremental value to the Show.
- Proactively identify and create compelling business cases and commercial proposals for new ventures.
- Act as the point of contact for key commercial partners, ensuring strong relationships and long‑term retention.
Business Development & External Engagement
- Develop and maintain a strong pipeline of prospective corporate partners, clients, and commercial customers.
- Engage collaboratively with Sponsorship and Trade Stands teams where appropriate to support joined‑up commercial conversations and maximise overall show value.
- Attend industry events, exhibitions, and networking functions to promote RHS commercial opportunities and build relationships.
- Liaise with the relevant Chief Stewards, the Operations team, and external contractors to ensure smooth and professional delivery of the show.
- Work cross‑functionally to ensure commercial opportunities are aligned with wider RHS initiatives, events, and brand strategy.
Event Delivery & Partner Experience
- Plan and oversee commercial client activations and hospitality experiences at the Royal Highland Show.
- Provide on‑site leadership to ensure commercial partners receive first‑class service and fulfilment.
- Collaborate with internal teams to deliver excellent logistics, communications, and end‑to‑end partner satisfaction.
Merchandise & Corporate Liaison
- Support the development and expansion of RHS merchandise and commercial product lines, working closely with Sponsorship Executive & Marketing.
- Lead corporate sales for the Royal Highland Show (e.g., hospitality, group bookings, commercial packages).
- Contribute to the development of new revenue‑generating projects, products, or commercial models.
What You’ll Bring
Essential
- Proven experience in business development, commercial growth, or new revenue generation, ideally within events, exhibitions, visitor attractions, or complex commercial environments.
- A strong track record of identifying, developing, and delivering new income streams, partnerships, or commercial opportunities from concept to contract.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence, negotiate, and build rapport at all levels.
- Strong project management and organisational skills; comfortable handling multiple priorities and developing new initiatives in evolving environments.
- Experience working cross‑functionally and engaging constructively with multiple internal stakeholders.
- Commercial awareness and financial literacy, including pricing, value propositions, and return on investment.
- Proficiency in CRM systems and MS Office Suite.
Desirable
- Familiarity with sponsorship management software or platforms.
- Experience working with boards, high‑level sponsors, or trustees.
- Knowledge of merchandise sales and corporate hospitality logistics.
Application deadline: Friday 30th of January 5pm.
Business Development Manager employer: The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland
Contact Detail:
The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events and exhibitions to meet potential partners and clients. Don’t just collect business cards; engage in meaningful conversations that could lead to future collaborations.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the role! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or during interviews, express your enthusiasm for RHASS’s mission and how you can contribute to their goals. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or interviews. A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your professionalism. Mention something specific from your conversation to make it personal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates about RHASS and the Royal Highland Show right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in business development and any relevant achievements that align with RHASS's mission. We want to see how you can contribute to our goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your skills can help us grow commercial revenue at the Royal Highland Show. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills: Since this role involves building relationships, make sure to highlight your interpersonal skills in your application. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged with partners or clients in the past. We love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply 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 at RHASS!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, do your homework on RHASS and its mission. Understand their role in Scottish agriculture and how the Business Development Manager fits into their goals. This will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your success in business development and revenue generation. Highlight instances where you've identified new income streams or built strong partnerships, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Come prepared with questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current commercial strategies or how they envision the future of the Royal Highland Show. This shows you're engaged and thinking strategically.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working cross-functionally, be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with different teams in the past. Share examples of how you’ve managed relationships and ensured alignment across various departments to achieve common goals.
