Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager

Salary: £30,000–£36,000 per annum (depending on experience) plus performance related bonus

Location: Remote (UK) / Hybrid / Durham office

Reports to: Head of Business Development

Help shape the future of independent retail

Are you a commercially driven relationship builder who enjoys developing partnerships, creating innovative campaigns and making a genuine impact?

The Federation of Independent Retailers (The Fed) is looking for an ambitious Business Development Manager to help grow strategic supplier partnerships that support thousands of independent retailers across the UK.

This isn't a traditional cold calling sales role. It's about building long term commercial relationships, developing creative partnership opportunities and delivering campaigns that generate income while helping independent retailers save money and grow their businesses.

Working across print, digital, events and insight platforms, you'll have the opportunity to work with some of the UK's leading convenience, FMCG and retail brands, creating innovative commercial partnerships that deliver real value for everyone involved.

What you'll be doing

• Build and develop strong commercial relationships with suppliers and strategic partners.
• Identify and secure new commercial partnerships that support The Fed and its members.
• Create innovative campaigns across print, digital, events and insight platforms.
• Manage a portfolio of key accounts, delivering exceptional service and long term value.
• Negotiate commercial agreements that generate revenue while delivering tangible benefits for independent retailers.
• Work closely with Marketing, Communications and Finance to ensure campaigns are delivered successfully.
• Represent The Fed at trade shows, supplier meetings and industry events across the UK.
• Coordinate and deliver Fed Talks sessions with suppliers and internal teams.
• Monitor campaign performance, reporting and invoicing to ensure projects are delivered effectively.

What success looks like

Within your first 12 months you'll be:

• Growing commercial income through new and existing partnerships.
• Launching successful supplier campaigns across multiple platforms.
• Becoming a trusted commercial partner for key suppliers.
• Developing new opportunities that create genuine value for independent retailers.
• Playing a key role in supporting The Fed's continued growth.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in business development, partnerships or account management.
• Is a confident communicator who enjoys building long term relationships.
• Has strong commercial awareness and excellent negotiation skills.
• Is self motivated, organised and able to manage multiple projects.
• Is creative, proactive and always looking for new opportunities.
• Is confident presenting ideas to a range of audiences.
• Is competent using Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
• Is willing to travel across the UK for supplier meetings, trade events and conferences.

Desirable experience

Experience in any of the following would be an advantage:

• FMCG or retail.
• Membership organisations.
• Sponsorship or commercial partnerships.
• Media, publishing or events.
• Marketing or campaign management.

What you'll receive

• £30,000–£36,000 per annum (depending on experience) plus performance related bonus.
• Remote, hybrid and flexible working opportunities.
• Career development and progression opportunities.
• The opportunity to attend major UK retail and industry events.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• The chance to build relationships with some of the UK's leading retail suppliers and brands.
• The opportunity to make a genuine impact supporting thousands of independent retailers across the UK.

Ready to make an impact?

If you're passionate about building partnerships, developing commercial opportunities and making a real difference to independent retailers, we'd love to hear from you.