Senior Business Development Officer

About Portland Training

Portland Training are a leading provider of high-quality training programmes that cover a wide range of areas, including construction, FLT, warehousing & employability. Our dedication and commitment to our learners is part of everything we do. All our employees strive to be the BEST, which is reflected in the values we all live and breathe every day; Believe, Encourage, Support and Together.

Our workforce is diverse, and we foster a culture of inclusivity, positivity, and collaborative ways of thinking. We are proud to say we have been awarded an Investors in People Gold Award and are an Ofsted Good Provider, which highlights our passion and commitment to be the best and sets us apart from the crowd. We are a forward-thinking company which is going through a significant period of growth. We know our success starts with our employees and we reward them accordingly. We offer industry-leading career progression, ongoing development & training, great salary packages and benefits, all within a supportive, friendly, and fun atmosphere.

If you are passionate about helping others achieve their full potential, would like to work in a forward-thinking organisation that really values their employees and offers industry-leading benefits, we would love to hear from you.

Please read the below overview of the role to see if it interests you. If you would like to apply, please use the form at the bottom of the page.

About the Role

Senior Business Development Officer

Job Title: Senior Business Development Officer

Responsible to: Head of Marketing & Sales

Location: On-site with travel required

Purpose of the role:

Portland Training are currently expanding and have an exciting opportunity available for the right candidate to join our team.

Testament to our commitment to creating the best possible workplace we can, we have been awarded Investors in People, Gold Accreditation!

A commitment shared by everyone in the company – from our Managing Director Hollie to our Apprentices each individual takes ownership for making Portland Training a fantastic place to work.

The Senior Business Development Officer will be responsible for generating new business leads through outbound calls, emails, and follow-up communication with prospective clients. Working closely with the sales team, you will take ownership of lead generation activity and play a key role in maintaining a consistent and responsive approach across all channels. You will regularly engage with potential clients via phone and digital platforms and may occasionally be required to attend in-person meetings where appropriate. The role involves active participation in a collaborative team environment, ensuring a professional and timely approach is upheld throughout all stages of the lead journey. You will also provide guidance to junior team members and support the smooth running of daily business development operations.

Key Responsibilities

    • Generate new business through outbound calls, emails, and digital channels by contacting decision-makers, following up enquiries, and building relationships with key stakeholders
    • Arrange and, where appropriate, attend face-to-face meetings with potential clients to explore opportunities
    • Ensure all GDPR and communication consent requirements are met prior to sharing marketing materials or updates
    • Utilise the CRM system to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all contact, learner journey information, and lead activity, supporting timely follow-up, ongoing reporting, and engagement with employers and learners
    • Support other members of the business development team in day-to-day activity and workload
    • Share ideas, coach and mentor colleagues, and actively contribute to team discussions and sales planning to support improvement, consistency, and overall effectiveness in the lead generation process
    • Assist with coordinating follow-up activity and ensuring leads are progressed or handed over appropriately
    • Take responsibility for ensuring a professional and responsive approach is maintained throughout all prospect interactions
    • Support wider sales initiatives or outreach projects as directed by the line manager
    • Work closely with the Commercial Co-ordinator to ensure a seamless end-to-end process, for both the employers and learners
    • Conduct research and analysis of target markets, competitor activity and emerging opportunities

    Skills & Experience

    • Proven experience in outbound sales, with a track record of generating new business.
    • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage and build rapport with potential clients.
    • Familiarity with CRM systems and sales tracking tools.
    • Ability to adapt sales strategies based on client needs and feedback.
    • Self-motivated with a results-oriented approach to sales
    • Understanding of the construction, IT and digital sectors is advantageous but not mandatory.

    Qualifications

    • Functional Skills Level 2 (Maths & English) or equivalent.

    General Information

    Competitive Bonus Scheme
    We offer a clear, performance-linked bonus scheme to reward your hard work and results.

    Job Type: Full-time, permanent

    Benefits:

    • Company events
    • Flexitime
    • Free parking
    • On-site parking
    • Work from home

    Schedule:

    • Monday to Friday

    Portland Training is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS disclosure at an appropriate level.

    If you have any specific requirements or require assistance or reasonable adjustments to be made for you during the selection or application process due to disability or a long-term health condition, we will do our best to assist you.

    Apply Now

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