Business Development Manager - Maintenance
Overview
FDS Group, based in Greenhithe, Kent, is looking for a dynamic, experienced, and highly motivated Business Development Manager to join our growing team. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious professional with a strong background in construction, building services, or fire safety systems to play a key role in expanding our maintenance division. The role focuses on developing new business opportunities and managing an existing client portfolio as a welcome advantage.
Responsibilities
* Identify, engage, and secure new maintenance contracts for smoke ventilation and fire alarm systems, including installation by FDS and third-party systems
* Build and nurture relationships with M&E contractors, developers, facilities managers, and consultants
* Conduct targeted business development, including cold calls, networking, and industry events, to build a robust sales pipeline
* Conduct site surveys to assess system health, maintenance needs, and potential upgrades
* Prepare technically accurate and commercially competitive quotations and proposals for maintenance services
* Maintain and regularly update the CRM system to track leads, pipeline status, quotations, and opportunities
* Monitor conversion rates and forecast sales performance
* Serve as the main liaison for clients; ensure service satisfaction and identify upsell opportunities
* Foster long-term relationships to encourage repeat business and referrals
* Stay abreast of relevant UK standards (e.g., BS 5839 for fire alarms, SCA guidance for smoke ventilation maintenance) and ensure all proposals and services comply
* Collaborate with FDS maintenance engineers to ensure safe and compliant service delivery
* Deliver regular reports on revenue, conversion, pipeline status, client satisfaction, and maintenance trends
* Provide senior management with actionable insights to steer strategy and growth
Requirements
* Experience: Proven track record in sales/business development within the fire & security or smoke ventilation sectors, especially maintenance contracts
* Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with smoke ventilation systems (AOVs, mechanical smoke shafts, dampers) and fire alarm systems; understanding of standards such as BS 5839, SCA maintenance guidance
* Communication & Negotiation: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills; strong telephone manner
* Sales Tools Proficiency: Proficient with CRM software; solid working knowledge of Excel, Word, Outlook
* Self-Starter: Autonomous, proactive, target-driven, and able to manage multiple accounts
* Travel: Full UK driving license and willingness to visit sites as needed
Desirable Qualifications
* Certifications or training in fire detection/alarm systems and/or smoke ventilation (FIA)
* Background in M&E contracting, smoke control sales, or the specification side of HVAC/fire safety systems
* Established commercial network within the fire safety, ventilation, or building services industry
Benefits
* Location: Based in Greenhithe, Kent
* Culture: Inclusive, growth-oriented company that values professional development and career progression
* Specialisation: Niche in smoke ventilation and fire alarm system design, installation, and maintenance
* Operational Focus: Dedicated maintenance division offering proactive preventative maintenance and 24-hour emergency response
* Salary: £45k - £55k
* OTE on targets: £10k - £20k
* Car travel allowance
* Private healthcare on completion of probation
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Sales, Business Development, and Customer Service
London, England, United Kingdom
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