Business Development and Commercial Lead | UK

7952
  • Competitive
  • United Kingdom
  • Automotive
  • Permanent

Job Opportunity: Business Development and Commercial Lead (Automotive Sector)
Location: Midlands

Are you a seasoned professional with a strong track record in automotive business development and commercial negotiations? We are seeking an experienced Business Development and Commercial Lead to accelerate growth with a leading automotive client. This is a unique opportunity to drive strategic plans, manage high-level negotiations, and maintain robust customer relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Growth Leadership: Collaborate with senior leadership and technical teams to develop strategic and product-based plans that differentiate the business in the market and drive accelerated growth with the client.

  • Customer Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for the automotive client, providing local business development leadership and maintaining daily customer interactions to plan and progress new business opportunities.

  • Commercial Account Management: Take ownership of all commercial activities related to the client, ensuring seamless coordination with internal account teams. You will negotiate, manage sourcing agreements, and handle design changes, ensuring contractual clarity for all new programs.

  • Business Development: Monitor the market for competitive insights, proactively lead new business initiatives, and manage Requests for Quote (RFQs), ensuring that the organization is prepared for all opportunities.

  • Quotations and Pricing: Lead or support the development of pricing strategies for new products and design changes, negotiating with the client to ensure optimal pricing that aligns with business goals.

  • Annual and Strategic Negotiations: Engage in pricing negotiations, defend against competitive price movements, and manage strategic discussions to resolve business issues and secure new contracts.

  • Cash Flow Management: Ensure timely billing and payment from the client, including management of outstanding claims and receivables.

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Automotive Industry Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the client's electronics teams, processes, and network is a distinct advantage.

  • Business Development Acumen: Proven experience in managing business development and leading major commercial negotiations within the automotive sector.

  • Strong Customer Relationship Management: Skilled in maintaining and growing customer relationships with key decision-makers in purchasing, engineering, and program management.

  • Commercial and Contractual Expertise: Ability to manage complex contracts, including pricing agreements and sourcing terms, ensuring all implications are accounted for within project and profitability plans.

  • Financial and Analytical Skills: Strong understanding of market dynamics, pricing strategies, and competitive analysis.

  • Tools Proficiency: Familiarity with internal tracking tools and systems for managing new business opportunities.

  • Driving License: Must possess a valid driving license to support business meetings across multiple locations as needed.


This role offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping a strategic relationship with a leading automotive client. Based in Midlands, you’ll be working in a dynamic environment with the chance to lead high-level negotiations and make a significant impact on the business.

If you have a passion for automotive innovation, strategic business development, and thrive in high-stakes commercial environments, we encourage you to apply.

Thomas Poole Senior Account Manager

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