Business Development Manager

Company: Leicestershire County Council
Apply for the Business Development Manager
Location: East Midlands
Job Description:

Organisation: ESPO

Work Location: ESPO, Barnsdale Way, Grove Park, Enderby

Salary: £43,860 – £47,829 per annum (pro‑ra­ta for part‑time) (Pay award pending)

Working Hours: 37 hours per week

Contract Type: Fixed Term – 12 months (internal secondment considered for internal applicants)

Closing date: Sunday 31st May 2026

Interview Date(s): Early June 2026

About the Role

ESPO is expanding into new commercial markets and we are seeking a Business Development Manager to support both national and international growth plans. The role includes outreach into emerging commercial and third‑sector markets, with a particular focus on SEND schools, children’s homes, holiday park sector, and supporting ESPO International through key distribution partners to grow our presence in new and emerging international markets.

This 12‑month fixed‑term position offers the opportunity to develop ESPO Trading Limited’s (ETL) sales channels and commercial footprint, open new markets and build partnerships that support the wider growth strategy. You will work across the ETL portfolio of brands and sectors, adapting your approach to suit different customers and markets.

You will identify and progress new customer opportunities, build networks, develop propositions and support commercial conversations that position ETL as a trusted sourcing and procurement partner. The role combines strategic outreach with practical account development, including managing proposals, engagement plans and pipeline reporting, using CRM and customer insight tools to inform activity and forecast growth.

Success in the role will involve securing new customers, establishing strong sector relationships, supporting distribution partner activity for ESPO International and enabling ETL’s commercial brands and service solutions to deliver measurable outcomes.

About You

To apply for this post, you must have:

  • Degree level or extensive experience as outlined in the experience section below and proven sales and/or account management experience in a commercial environment.
  • Strong commercial and financial acumen with an ROI focus.
  • Ability to create new market channels and develop relationships at pace.
  • Confident communicator with strong influencing and presentation skills.
  • Ability to interpret datasets and complex information using ERP systems, CRM and Excel to support business development and growth.
  • Willingness to demonstrate commitment to ESPO values during the interview process.
  • Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and will consider reasonable adjustments for applicants with a disability.

What we Offer

  • Flexible working opportunities and access to employee benefits portal with salary sacrifice car lease scheme.
  • 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, and a scheme to buy additional leave.
  • Local Government Pension Scheme with a generous employer contribution.
  • Opportunities for learning and development.
  • Great office location next to Fosse Park, with free on‑site parking and easy access to M1 and M69.

Flexible Working

We are open to discussions about flexible working, which may include part‑time working, job sharing, term‑time working, flexible start and finish times and hybrid working, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.

Contact

For more information or an informal discussion, please contact:

Helen Swann, Head of Business Development

Telephone: 07584 775985

Email: h.swann@espo.org

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Posted: May 29th, 2026