At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive new client acquisition and oversee premium service experiences.
- Company: Join Wheels Up, a leader in on-demand private aviation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, commission, gym discounts, and flexible leave options.
- Other info: Hybrid role based in Gatwick with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of private aviation while making impactful connections.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in sales with strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Join Our Team at Wheels Up. At Wheels Up, we're proud to be a global leader in on-demand private aviation. As one of the largest companies in the industry and a strategic partner of Delta Air Lines, we are committed to making private air travel safe, reliable, and enjoyable. With a diverse fleet of owned aircraft plus a global network of trusted charter operators, we offer our customers access to the right aircraft for their needs and the ability to fly on their terms.
Role Overview: What You’ll Be Doing. As Business Development Manager / Sales Manager you are responsible for driving new client acquisition and overseeing the commercial and service experience for a defined book of business. You partner closely with the VP and Flight Services Managers (FSMs) to ensure customers receive a seamless, premium experience while maintaining accountability for growth, retention, and overall client satisfaction. This role serves as a key liaison for new clients and plays a strategic, client-facing role in identifying the right travel and client solutions.
Responsibilities:
- Partner with VP to identify, qualify, and convert prospective clients through outreach, lead follow-up, and qualification of strong opportunities.
- Lead new client acquisition by identifying the appropriate customer and travel solutions aligned to client needs and usage patterns.
- Oversee a defined portfolio of client relationships with accountability for growth and retention.
- Act as the primary commercial and service liaison for new clients, ensuring smooth onboarding experience and clear handoff to FSMs.
- Collaborate closely with Flight Services Managers, who are responsible for trip sourcing, detailed quote preparation, pricing, aircraft options, and itineraries for existing customers.
- Maintain visibility into client communications and activity, stepping in as needed to support the relationship, address concerns, or reinforce the overall experience.
- Identify upselling and cross-sell opportunities and partner with VP to advance those opportunities.
- Prepare and present client proposals and recommend solutions based on client travel needs.
- Monitor client activity and proactively engage to drive repeat bookings, renewals, and deeper client engagement.
- Support resolution of service issues and irregular operations by coordinating the team and assisting with client communication when appropriate.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver consistent, premium client experience.
- Maintain accurate records and updates in the CRM to support team-based coverage and informed decision-making.
Qualifications: We’re looking for a sales professional with:
- 5+ years proven experience in outbound sales, business development, or lead generation.
- A natural hunter mentality – confident in cold outreach, prospecting, and opening new doors.
- Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build trust and develop long-term client partnerships.
- Excellent communication and persuasion skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong presentation skills - both virtual and in-person skills, are essential.
- Resilient, self-motivated, and driven to exceed targets and earn high rewards.
- Comfortable managing a full sales cycle from prospecting to closing.
- Highly organised with strong time management and pipeline management skills.
- Adaptable and coachable, with a willingness to learn quickly and continuously improve.
What We Offer: Salary Range & Benefits. At Wheels Up, we believe in fair compensation based on experience, skills, and qualifications. The basic salary for this role is circa £65,000 + commission (realistic OTE of circa £125,000 in the first 3 years; depending upon individual performance) and is dependent on experience. We also offer a range of benefits designed to support your well-being and personal life.
Everyone is welcome here. Each of us is unique, and that’s what makes us amazing. We believe there’s power in bringing people with different backgrounds, points of view and life experiences together. So, bring yourself and your best ideas. Wheels Up is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees.
Business Development Manager / Sales Manager employer: Wheels Up
At Wheels Up, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the private aviation sector, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our Gatwick office provides a hybrid working model, allowing for flexibility while you contribute to our mission of delivering exceptional client experiences. With competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to employee growth, we ensure that every team member has the opportunity to thrive and make a meaningful impact in their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager / Sales Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the aviation industry or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Wheels Up and understand their mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your skills in sales and business development can help them achieve their goals. Tailor your pitch to show you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in making you memorable. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the company’s success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Wheels Up team. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager / Sales Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your sales experience and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive client acquisition and manage relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about private aviation and how your skills align with our mission at Wheels Up. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of client interaction, make sure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and professional while still being engaging.
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wheels Up
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Wheels Up's services and values. Understand their mission to deliver a premium aviation experience and be ready to discuss how your background in sales can align with their goals. This shows genuine interest and preparation.
✨Showcase Your Sales Skills
Be prepared to share specific examples of your past successes in client acquisition and relationship management. Highlight your ability to identify client needs and propose tailored solutions, as this is crucial for the Business Development Manager role.
✨Practice Your Pitch
Since strong presentation skills are essential, practice articulating your value proposition clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your delivery and ensure you can engage effectively with potential clients.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Wheels Up’s growth strategy and how the Business Development Manager fits into that vision. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your career aspirations.
