At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth by building relationships and converting opportunities in the PBSA market.
- Company: Join Unilife and Stelling Properties, leaders in modular construction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for innovation.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming student accommodation with cutting-edge modular solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in PBSA sector and strong relationship-building skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals ready to make a real impact.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Unilife and Stelling Properties are scaling — and we’re looking for a Business Development Manager to help drive this growth. This isn’t a typical BD role. It’s a sector-facing, relationship-led position with a clear focus: build and convert a modular pipeline into the factory, alongside growing Unilife's third-party management portfolio.
The role works across both the Unilife platform and Stelling's modular construction business. You’ll be embedded in the PBSA market, focused on building early-stage opportunities and converting them into modular construction pipeline and operating partnerships.
- Build relationships with developers, investors, universities and operators
- Get in early — pre-planning, pre-procurement
- Turn conversations into modular construction opportunities
- Identify and support third-party management opportunities for Unilife
- Clearly articulate the commercial case for modular — accelerated delivery, programme certainty, earlier cost clarity and reduced delivery risk
- Help position Unilife as a premium operating partner
What Success Looks Like
- A strong, credible pipeline of modular-led opportunities
- Early access to schemes and decision-makers
- Consistent deal flow into the factory
- Growth in Unilife's third-party management pipeline
Who This Role Suits
- This role is aimed at someone already operating within the PBSA sector.
- You are currently working in PBSA, student accommodation, or closely aligned real estate
- You have an existing network across developers, investors, universities or operators
- You understand how PBSA schemes are originated, structured and delivered
- You’re comfortable building relationships at a senior level and representing the business in the market
- You lead with innovation — using AI, data and technology to drive smarter, more effective business development and bring new thinking into the sector
- You’re proactive, commercially sharp, and able to create opportunities — not wait for them
This role suits someone who knows the PBSA market, operates with a forward-thinking mindset, and can convert relationships into real, qualified pipeline.
PBSA Business Development Manager in Southampton employer: Unilife Student Living
Contact Detail:
Unilife Student Living Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PBSA Business Development Manager in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with developers, investors, and universities. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building those relationships is key to landing that Business Development Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive in your approach. Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you; create them! Research potential projects and reach out to decision-makers before they even start looking for partners. Show them how Unilife can add value to their modular construction plans.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your knowledge of the PBSA market. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure you can clearly articulate the benefits of modular construction. Use real examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated similar challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, but more importantly, we want to see your passion for the PBSA sector. Tailor your approach to highlight your existing network and how you can leverage it to drive growth for Unilife and Stelling Properties.
We think you need these skills to ace PBSA Business Development Manager in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for PBSA: Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for the PBSA sector in your application. We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about driving growth in this specific market.
Network Like a Pro: Since this role is all about building relationships, don’t forget to mention your existing network. We love seeing candidates who can connect with developers, investors, and universities — so share those connections in your application!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you articulate your experience and how it aligns with our goals at Unilife and Stelling Properties without any fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Unilife Student Living
✨Know Your PBSA Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the PBSA sector. Brush up on current trends, key players, and recent developments. This will not only show your passion for the industry but also help you engage in meaningful conversations with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Network
Since this role is all about relationships, be ready to discuss your existing network. Highlight specific connections you have with developers, investors, or universities, and how these relationships can benefit the company. Bring examples of how you've leveraged your network in past roles.
✨Articulate the Value of Modular Construction
Prepare to clearly explain the benefits of modular construction. Be ready to discuss how it accelerates delivery, provides cost clarity, and reduces risks. Use real-life examples to illustrate your points and demonstrate your understanding of the commercial case for modular.
✨Be Proactive and Innovative
This role requires a forward-thinking mindset. During the interview, share examples of how you've used AI, data, or technology to drive business development. Show that you’re not just waiting for opportunities but actively creating them, which aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.