Shipping Business Development Manager

We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and enthusiastic sales person to join a National Freight Forwarding company as a Business Development Manager. The ideal candidate will have a strong sales background ideally gained from within the Shipping, Freight or Logistics industry. Key Responsibilities: * Develop new business opportunities by identifying and engaging prospective customers across key sectors and target territories. * Maintain a healthy sales pipeline, ensuring opportunities are accurately recorded, monitored, and progressed through each stage. * Analyse customer requirements, market activity, and competitor offerings to deliver tailored logistics solutions that address client needs. * Drive revenue growth by converting qualified prospects into long-term business relationships. * Lead commercial discussions from initial client engagement through proposal, negotiation, and contract completion, ensuring an effective handover for service delivery. * Build strong relationships with prospective clients through regular face-to-face meetings, presenting freight and supply chain solutions that add value to their operations. * Expand professional networks by attending exhibitions, trade events, and industry forums to generate leads and strengthen market presence. * Monitor changes within the logistics sector, including market conditions and regulatory developments, to identify opportunities and support business growth. * Support business development initiatives by contributing to prospecting campaigns, marketing activities, and lead generation strategies. Previous Skills & Experience: * Proven track record in business development or sales within the freight forwarding and logistics industry. * Strong understanding of international freight operations, including import and export processes, global supply chains, and multimodal transport solutions. * Skilled in consultative selling, identifying customer challenges and delivering tailored solutions that foster long-term partnerships. * Professional and confident communicator with the ability to build rapport, conduct client meetings, and deliver presentations to decision-makers and senior stakeholders. * Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise workloads, manage frequent travel, and maintain accurate CRM and pipeline records. Benefits: * Attractive salary * 10% commission * Pension, Life Insurance, Income Protection Insurance * EV salary sacrifice scheme * Car allowance Please be advised a full UK driving licence is essential, as this predominantly field-based position involves regular travel to customer locations and occasional overnight stays