Our client delivers interior fit-out, modular new-build and specialist furniture projects, primarily within the private education sector. Following a successful transition from an owner-managed business, the company is now led by a growth-focused CEO who is investing in the leadership, commercial capability and infrastructure required to significantly scale the organisation over the next five years. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially astute Sales Director to shape the growth trajectory of a profitable and highly respected business. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will own the entire customer acquisition strategy, from market positioning and channel development through to conversion and long-term account growth. You will take responsibility for developing strategic routes to market, including framework agreements, tender opportunities, partnerships and marketing activity. A key focus will be elevating the company's consultative proposition, ensuring its design consultancy expertise is positioned as a strategic differentiator that drives project delivery opportunities. Success in this role requires a credible, commercially minded leader who can engage at C-Suite level, influence senior stakeholders and build trusted relationships across the sector. Equally important is the ability to create, lead and inspire a high-performing commercial team capable of supporting ambitious growth plans. This is a genuine leadership opportunity for someone who wants to leave a lasting mark on a business undergoing significant transformation and expansion. Responsibilities Develop and execute the commercial growth strategy alongside the CEO. Own all customer acquisition activity, including inbound and outbound sales, framework agreements, tender opportunities, strategic partnerships, referral networks and marketing Lead marketing, brand positioning, digital campaigns, LinkedIn activity and lead generation to deliver measurable commercial outcomes. Drive a consultative sales approach that strengthens the link between design consultancy and project delivery. Personally lead major opportunities and strategic pursuits, securing high-value contracts and long-term client relationships. Build trusted relationships with C-Suite executives, bursars, governors, estates teams and other senior decision makers. Deliver compelling presentations, proposals and commercial pitches. Own conversion from lead to closed business, with reliable, evidenced pipeline forecasts and honest, stage-gated reporting the board can trust. Build, develop and lead a high-performing commercial team across business development, marketing and sales support. Establish a culture of accountability, energy, collaboration and continuous improvement. Contribute to wider business strategy as a key member of the senior leadership team.Requirements Proven success in a senior sales, commercial or business development leadership role within construction, fit-out, modular construction, design & build or another project-led B2B environment. Exceptional stakeholder engagement.You will build strong relationships and a strong network across the sector, including bursars, governors and estates teams. Demonstrable experience developing routes to market through sales, frameworks, partnerships, tendering and strategic business development. Strong track record of consultative selling and securing complex, high-value opportunities. Experience engaging, influencing and negotiating with C-Suite and board-level stakeholders. Exceptional presentation, communication, networking and relationship-building skills. Experience leading and developing successful sales, business development and marketing teams. Strong commercial acumen with a clear understanding of pipeline management, forecasting, profitability and growth. Education sector experience would be advantageous but is not essential. Ambitious, entrepreneurial and results-focused, with the leadership skills to build a high-performance culture.Benefits Salary to £150,000 basic Performance-related bonus Car allowance. Longer-term incentive arrangements availableIND25
Sales Director in Watford employer: Universal Business Team
Universal Business Team is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. Located in Barnton, England, the company offers a vibrant work culture with comprehensive training and clear advancement paths, making it an ideal place for recent graduates to kickstart their careers. With competitive salaries and uncapped bonuses, employees are rewarded for their hard work while being supported in their professional journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Director in Watford
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Universal Business Team, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Sales Director at Universal Business Team.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Business Team
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
