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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth and build partnerships for Scotland's premier agricultural event.
- Company: Join the Royal Highland Show, a leading agricultural charity with a prestigious reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days holiday, a generous pension, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a vibrant industry while networking with influential partners.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Work in a dog-friendly office with excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40000 £ per year.
Valeco Recruitment is delighted to be supporting our client, RHASS, in their search for a strategic and commercially minded Business Development Manager for the iconic Royal Highland Show.
Location: Edinburgh (Ingliston)
Contract: Full-Time, Fixed Term
Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 + Excellent Benefits
Working Pattern: Office-based with 1–2 days WFH (once embedded)
The Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity to represent Scotland’s leading agricultural charity and its premier outdoor event. Unlike many "BDM" roles, this position involves no cold calling and no direct line management. You will be working with a "warm" and highly prestigious brand, networking with an existing community of Directors, Corporate Clients, and Business Groups who already value the Royal Highland Show. Your goal is to identify new revenue streams, develop high-value partnerships, and innovate within the commercial space.
What You’ll Do
- Strategic Growth: Develop and deliver a commercial strategy that aligns with the Show’s long-term goals.
- Network Engagement: Build rapport with established corporate partners and networking groups—no "door knocking" required.
- Revenue Innovation: Create compelling business cases for new ventures, including merchandise expansion and corporate hospitality packages.
- Event Delivery: Provide on-site leadership during the Show to ensure commercial partners receive first-class service and fulfillment.
What You’ll Bring
- Proven Track Record: Experience in business development or commercial growth, ideally within events, visitor attractions, or complex corporate environments.
- The Relationship Builder: Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence and negotiate at the Director level.
- Industry Passion: A genuine interest or passion for the industry (agriculture, rural life, or large-scale events) is highly preferred.
- Resourceful Nature: You are a creative thinker who can take a concept from a "good idea" to a signed contract.
Benefits & Culture
- Holiday: 34 days per year (includes 10 public holidays and 4 fixed Director Days).
- Pension: Outstanding 10% employer contribution (on the provision of a 6% employee contribution).
- Flexibility: Once embedded, the role offers 1–2 days per week working from home.
- The Perks: Free onsite parking, dog-friendly office, life assurance, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
How to Apply
To apply for this role, please submit your CV directly via Valeco Recruitment.
Important Note: Valeco Recruitment is managing this vacancy exclusively. Any applicants who contact the client (RHASS) directly will not be considered by them and will be referred back to the agency.
Business Development Manager employer: Valeco Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Valeco Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up social media groups related to business development and agriculture. The more you engage, the more opportunities will come your way.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you're chatting with potential employers or networking contacts, let your enthusiasm for the agricultural sector shine through. Share your ideas on how to innovate and grow within the industry—this can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Royal Highland Show and its values. Think about how your skills can align with their goals. Practise answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their commercial strategy.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows that you're serious about the role. Don’t forget to tailor your CV to highlight your relevant experience in business development and relationship building.
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, especially in events or corporate environments, and showcase your strategic growth skills.
Show Your Passion: Let your genuine interest in agriculture, rural life, or large-scale events shine through in your application. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about the industry and can bring that enthusiasm to the role.
Highlight Your Networking Skills: Since this role involves building relationships with existing partners, emphasise your exceptional communication and relationship-building skills. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders at a high level.
Follow Application Instructions: Remember to submit your CV directly via Valeco Recruitment as instructed. Following the application process correctly shows us that you can pay attention to detail and follow guidelines.
How to prepare for a job interview at Valeco Recruitment
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research RHASS and the Royal Highland Show. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Networking Skills
Since this role involves building relationships with corporate partners, be prepared to discuss your past experiences in networking. Share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders and created valuable partnerships in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you would approach developing a commercial strategy for the Royal Highland Show. Be ready to discuss innovative ideas for revenue streams or partnerships, and how you would align these with the Show's long-term goals.
✨Passion for the Industry
Express your enthusiasm for agriculture, rural life, or large-scale events during the interview. Share any personal experiences or interests that connect you to the industry, as this can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to the role.