Business Development Manager

For nearly three decades, The Rug Company has set the standard for contemporary handmade rugs, uniting time-honoured craftsmanship with forward-looking design. Each piece is woven from ethically sourced materials using traditional techniques, conceived to endure and to be lived with for generations. Our collaborations with the world’s most celebrated fashion houses and visionary artists have expanded the language of rug design, while our in-house studio continues to pioneer new expressions with a rare balance of expertise, innovation, and artistry. At the heart of our success are our people. We believe our greatest asset is the talent and passion of our team. We lead with curiosity and courage, creating an environment where everyone is empowered to take ownership, remove obstacles, and do the right thing. We hold each other accountable, support one another, and act with urgency and integrity. Standing still means falling behind—we continuously learn, grow, and move forward together. Our talented team is based in offices and showrooms in London, New York, Dubai, Los Angeles, Dallas, South Florida, Chicago, and Boston.

About the Role

The Business Development Manager (BDM) will drive revenue growth and expand The Rug Company’s business in the assigned territory through effective account management. The BDM is responsible for meeting annual sales targets; cultivating relationships with new and existing trade and retail clients; building brand awareness and loyalty; and delivering exceptional client experience throughout the sales cycle. You demonstrate a proactive and strategic approach to sales and have a proven ability to build and maintain long‑term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate annual revenue in your sales territory in accordance with agreed targets.
• Drive results through disciplined sales pipeline management: leveraging sales data to track performance, forecast revenue, and identify gaps, while overseeing sales activity to maintain strong outreach, follow-up, and deal progression.
• Actively manage the CRM to maintain a comprehensive, strategic view of your client book, cultivating long-term relationships with interior designers, architects, and homeowners to drive loyalty and repeat business.
• Strategically identify and pursue untapped market segments and qualified emerging design firms to generate new revenue streams.
• Act as a market scout—tracking design industry trends, upcoming real estate projects, and designer transitions to consistently get ahead of the competition in uncovering new business.
• Conduct regular appointments with strategically identified accounts both in the showroom, at client offices and at project sites.
• Actively build brand recognition by maintaining a consistent presence at design industry events and social gatherings as a trusted face of the company.
• Serve as an ambassador for The Rug Company and its products—representing our values, design authority, and craftsmanship with integrity and passion.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure a seamless client experience from initial inquiry through post-sale follow-up.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proven track record of success in sales within premium industries (e.g., furniture, textiles, or design-related sectors).
• Strong understanding of the interior design industry with established networks and proven ability to build and maintain trade relationships.
• Exceptional sales and negotiation skills with a demonstrated ability to close deals and meet or exceed targets.
• Proficiency in CRM platforms and sales tools (e.g., Pipedrive recommended).
• Ability to analyze needs and provide creative, tailored solutions.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, self-starter mindset.