At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales growth and develop relationships in the optical industry.
- Company: Join a leading name in the ophthalmic lens market with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, uncapped commission, and car allowance.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for networking and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a progressive business while developing your career in field sales.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development or account management in the optical sector.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Zest Optical are currently supporting a leading name in the optical industry to recruit a Business Development Manager for a field‑based commercial role covering South London & South East (Surrey, Kent, Sussex & Hampshire). This is an exciting opportunity to join a well‑established and growing business with a strong reputation in the ophthalmic lens market, offering a high‑quality portfolio of lens solutions alongside a broader range of products and services to independent optical customers across the territory.
As Business Development Manager, you will take ownership of a defined territory, focused on driving sales growth, developing existing customer relationships, and identifying new business opportunities. You’ll work closely with independent opticians, groups, and other relevant customers, acting as a trusted commercial partner and helping to grow market share across the region.
Key Responsibilities- Driving new business development activity across the territory, identifying and converting opportunities whilst growing existing accounts
- Promoting a portfolio of ophthalmic lens solutions to independent optical customers
- Building strong, consultative relationships and understanding customer needs to deliver tailored commercial solutions
- Delivering engaging product presentations, training sessions, and commercial meetings both in person and virtually
- Working collaboratively with internal teams including customer service, operations, and marketing
- Managing pipeline activity, forecasting, and reporting to ensure strong commercial performance
- Attending industry exhibitions, networking events, and customer meetings to generate opportunities and raise brand awareness
- Feeding back customer insight and competitor activity to support wider commercial strategy
- Qualified Dispensing Optician or strong commercial sales background within the optical sector
- Previous experience in a field‑based business development, account management, or territory sales role preferable
- Existing contacts and relationships within the UK optical industry would be highly advantageous
- Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship‑building skills
- Commercially driven, proactive, and confident managing a sales pipeline
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the territory
- Competitive basic salary circa £40k
- Attractive uncapped commission structure
- Car allowance
If you’re looking to join a progressive optical business and develop your career within field sales, apply now for a confidential discussion.
Business Development Manager - South London & South East employer: Zest Business Group
Zest Optical is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Business Development Manager in the vibrant South London & South East region, you will benefit from a competitive salary, uncapped commission structure, and a supportive culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Join a reputable company in the optical industry that values your contributions and provides opportunities to build meaningful relationships with independent opticians while driving sales success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager - South London & South East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry exhibitions and networking events to meet potential clients and other professionals. Building relationships in person can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance, deliver engaging product presentations or training sessions. This not only highlights your knowledge but also builds trust with your audience.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in following up! After meetings or presentations, reach out to your contacts to keep the conversation going. This shows your commitment and helps you stay top of mind.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to join us directly!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager - South London & South East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Business Development Manager. Highlight your experience in sales and any connections you have in the optical industry. We want to see how you can drive growth in our territory!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for the optical sector and how your skills align with our needs. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their vision for driving sales and building relationships.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Include specific examples of how you've driven sales growth or developed customer relationships in previous roles. We’re all about results, so let us know what you’ve achieved!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Business Group
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the portfolio of ophthalmic lens solutions. Understand the features, benefits, and how they meet customer needs. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles. Think about specific instances where you’ve turned a prospect into a loyal customer. This is crucial for a Business Development Manager, so be ready to share your success stories.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Market Insights
Research the optical industry trends and competitors before your interview. Being able to discuss current market dynamics and how they affect business development will show that you’re proactive and knowledgeable, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since delivering engaging product presentations is part of the role, practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently. You might even want to prepare a mock presentation on one of their products to showcase your skills and creativity during the interview.
