Senior Business Development Manager (EPS) in Birmingham

Aston University’s 2030 strategy is Inclusive, Entrepreneurial and Transformational. Our vision is to be a leading university of science, technology and enterprise, measured by the positive transformational impact we achieve for our people, students, businesses and the communities we serve.

Reporting to the Director of Business Development, the Senior Business Development Manager (SBDM) will play a lead role in driving strategic partnerships and growth opportunities for the University. This role will be aligned to the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

Main responsibilities:

• To create and maintain a commercial/enterprise strategy which aligns market need with the unique products/services within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
• To develop and manage strategic partnerships with businesses and other influential bodies in line with the Aston 2030 Strategy and manage key accounts for the institution.
• Build viable value propositions for partners who require bespoke solutions from Aston University, helping them to overcome specific operational challenges.
• To lead on major funding bids and proposals, generating external funding.
• Deliver against individual annual sales targets.

Experience:

As the successful candidate, you will have a proven track record of successful business development and client management with influential stakeholders in the Engineering sector, along with a proven ability to secure sales and deliver significant growth in income. We are looking for innovative and entrepreneurial BDMs that can broker long‑lasting, value generating partnerships between external partners and academia. The SBDM will join Aston University with established external connections in the sector for which they are applying, with an overarching objective to drive revenue generation. The ideal candidates are characterised by a profound understanding of business dynamics, adept strategic thinking, exceptional relationship‑building acumen, and a robust background in business development and sales. Also, they will need to be sensitive and appreciative of the culture of Aston University and the values of the Higher Education sector more broadly.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days’ bookable leave and a further 13 bank holidays and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family friendly policies.
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.

Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

Further details:

Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address, will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process. The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions. Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace.

For more information, visit: Inclusive Aston.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications: While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their applications, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities. We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles. If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk.