Business Development Manager

Company Description

Smart Aviation Limited is one the longest standing aircraft charter brokerages in the United Kingdom, with over two decades of experience providing private jets, group charters and aircraft leasing solutions. The organisation has built its reputation on strong personal connections, listening carefully to clients and acting with integrity. Attention to detail and a commitment to safety and reliability are central to every flight and service delivered. Smart Aviation operates a 24/7 team, reflecting a customer-focused culture and a responsive approach to global travel needs.

Role Description

In the second phase of our recent growth strategy, we are on the hunt for an ambitious Business Development Manager with a tenacity and drive to identify, nurture and secure new business opportunities across Private Jet & Commercial Jet charter.

The successful candidate will be responsible for growing our client portfolio through proactive outbound activity, relationship management and strategic networking. Day-to-day activities include prospecting and outreach, attending client meetings and industry events, maintaining accurate CRM records, researching market trends, collaborating with the Charter Brokers to deliver tailored solutions, managing the sales pipeline and providing regular performance reports to leadership.

This isn't your typical "9-5" role, with out of hours work a nature of the business due to client requirements, requiring a dynamic individual who thrives on building relationships and achieving realistic sales targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate new business opportunities and relationships through outbound sales activity.
• Attend industry events and networking functions.
• Maintain accurate CRM records.
• Produce bi-weekly / monthly sales reports and pipeline forecasts.
• Work closely with the Charter Brokers to convert enquiries into confirmed bookings.
• Develop strategic partnerships.
• Achieve monthly and annual Gross Profit targets.

Requirements

Essential

• Minimum 2-3 years B2B sales experience.
• Strong business development and sales skills, including lead generation, relationship management and contract negotiation.
• Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills.
• Organisational and time-management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong commercial awareness.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work closely with the Charter Brokers, Marketing and senior leadership teams.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Ability to travel.

Desirable

• Previous experience in Aviation, Luxury Travel, Logistic or related industries is highly beneficial.
• Comfort with CRM systems, MS Office and digital communication platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, aviation management or equivalent practical experience.
• Existing client network.
• Knowledge of aircraft charter.

What Smart Aviation can deliver in return

• Starting salary between £45,000-£50,000 (depending on experience)
• Commission structure
• 20 days holiday + bank holidays (increase +1 day, per year, up to a maximum 25 days).
• Private healthcare and pension
• International and domestic travel opportunities
• Team social events domestic and abroad
• Hybrid working available