Business Development Manager

Company: IGD (Institute of Grocery Distribution)
Apply for the Business Development Manager
Location: Watford
Job Description:

We’re looking for a Business Development Manager who will play a key role in driving IGD’s commercial activity. Most importantly, you will be a people person and have a background in developing new business. The client is at the heart of everything we do, so we are looking for someone who is passionate about driving new business and has a consultative approach to client acquisition.

Our business is growing. Our client loyalty is high, and to continue to drive our double‑digit growth, we need to acquire new clients. Our Online service has over 400 subscribers worldwide, predominantly manufacturers. We also have a number of retailers and a range of service suppliers in our portfolio of accounts.

What you’ll do

  • Build strong relationships with both cold and warm leads, creating trust and rapport from the outset
  • Take full ownership of the sales process – from initial outreach through to successful conversion
  • Understand each client’s unique challenges and objectives, using a consultative approach to identify the right solutions
  • Proactively seek out new business opportunities to drive IGD’s growth and expand our client base
  • Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure a seamless onboarding experience and deliver exceptional client service
  • Maintain and manage a robust pipeline, ensuring accurate forecasting and timely follow‑ups
  • Represent IGD at industry events and networking opportunities to strengthen our presence in the FMCG and retail sectors

What we’re looking for

  • You have a proven track record of meeting and exceeding sales targets with 2 years + experience in a quota carrying role
  • You will have at least 2+ years’ experience in a B2B and experience of working with FMCG and/or retail clients
  • You have a consultative approach to sales and demonstrable skills in both building and managing robust pipelines
  • You will have the confidence to talk with senior decision makers, in-person and virtually
  • You are self‑motivated, comfortable working on your own initiative whilst also being a keen collaborator and team player
  • You are proactive, resilient and tenacious with a ‘can do’ attitude, adept at creative problem solving both internally and externally
  • You have excellent networking skills and ideally have an existing network of contacts in the FMCG/Retail space
  • Experience of a high‑performance and customer‑focused culture
  • Proven ability to adapt to change and embrace new products and services
  • Strong commercial acumen with a good understanding of business issues
  • You are looking for a company in which to make a real difference and take your career to the next level

The rewards

We offer a range of benefits, including a market leading pension, a bonus scheme, the ability to buy and sell annual leave plus a generous medical insurance package. You will have a great work‑life balance, where you are empowered & trusted to manage your time.

The location

We are operating a hybrid approach to working with a mix of home and office‑based working. We are based in a very accessible location within the M25, just 20 miles from Central London.

We welcome applications from diverse candidates. Please discuss any adjustments that you may require throughout the selection and assessment process.

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Posted: April 23rd, 2026