Head of Business Development
Join to apply for the Head of Business Development role at Co‑op.
Co‑op Wholesale is growing, and we're looking for people who want to lead on what comes next. As our Head of Business Development, you'll oversee the acquisition of high‑value corporate contracts and build partnerships worth millions. You'll play a key role in delivering our new business strategy and creating opportunities that make a real difference across wholesale.
We're looking for someone who can build strong, trusted relationships with corporate clients, engage confidently at senior levels, and bring commercial expertise to every conversation. This is a great opportunity to help us grow our market presence and play a big part in shaping the future of Co‑op Wholesale. If you're ready to take on the challenge, we'd love to hear from you.
Why this role matters
We're building something big at Co‑op Wholesale. With a refreshed structure and exciting plans ahead, we're creating new opportunities to strengthen our proposition for our independent retailers, key accounts, and a growing corporate client base. You'll join our Business Development and Growth team, which is expanding to take on some of our biggest and boldest corporate acquisition targets. This team is all about collaboration, growth, and driving our business forward. From identifying new markets to shaping trusted partnerships, they're helping take us to the next level. This is where you come in.
This is your chance to shape what comes next – bringing new ideas to life and making a real impact. Be part of it.
What you’ll do
* Lead a pipeline of corporate acquisition opportunities, targeting multi‑site, strategically aligned partners
* Develop and deliver acquisition strategies that create commercial value and grow our brand presence
* Work closely with colleagues to make sure new customers are onboarded smoothly
* Continuously improve our pitch quality and win rates
* Help shape the future of our new business strategy alongside our Business Development and Growth Director
* Line‑manage a small team of Senior New Business Managers
* Act as deputy for the Business Growth & Development Director when required, managing aspects of independent retail acquisitions
What you’ll bring
* Experience leading and overseeing the delivery of large corporate acquisitions
* Knowledge of the independent retail sector
* Strong strategic thinking and planning skills
* The ability to lead and co‑ordinate teams effectively
* Great relationship‑building and partner management skills
* Commercial know‑how and confidence in presenting complex propositions
* Good communication skills, with the ability to influence and challenge inclusively
Why Co‑op?
* An annual bonus (based on personal and business performance)
* 28 days holiday (rising to 32 with service) plus bank holidays
* A pension with up to 10% employer contributions
* 30% discount on Co‑op products and 10% off other brands
* Early‑access stream – a percentage of your pay as you earn it
* Virtual healthcare including GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice
* Training and support for your development and career progression
Place you'll belong
We’re building diverse and inclusive teams that reflect the communities we serve.
We welcome applications from everyone and are committed to creating a workplace where colleagues can feel like they belong, supported by our inclusive policies and the ways we work.
We’re proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme and offer interviews to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for a job. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, we'll support you.
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Business Development
Industries
Wholesale
Base pay range
Head of Business Development
Circa £100,000 to £120,000 plus great benefits (Work Level 4)
Location: field‑based role with occasional travel to our Scunthorpe office for team meetings
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