Who are we?
We are UK Trade Furnishings Ltd, one of the UK’s leading companies in the interiors sector. We supply a wide range of flooring options including solid and engineered wood, laminate and vinyl, as well as accessories and fitting equipment, boasting 3 unique brands with different routes to market.
Founded in 2011, and incorporated in 2013, UKTF was started by a young entrepreneurial duo of cousins, who had the ambition of becoming one of the leading players in the online flooring industry. Since then, we have grown from strength to strength, expanding to new offices, with a growing team and picking up a few awards along the way!
Definition:
We are seeking a sales-driven, commercially minded Mandarin Chinese / English speaker to lead our Asia-focused business development and sales activity.
This role is primarily about building revenue-generating relationships, identifying new commercial opportunities, representing the company at trade shows, and supporting the development of export, wholesale, and strategic partnerships across Asia.
While you will work closely with manufacturers and partners, this is not a procurement role. The emphasis is on sales, negotiation, relationship management, and market expansion, rather than day-to-day sourcing or supply chain administration.
Key Responsibilities
Sales & Business Development (Primary Focus)
* Identify, develop, and manage new B2B sales opportunities across Asia, including distributors, wholesalers, retail partners, and strategic collaborators.
* Build and maintain strong long-term commercial relationships with key Asian partners to drive sales growth and brand presence.
* Actively promote UK Trade Furnishings’ brands and product ranges to potential customers and partners in the region.
* Develop and manage a sales pipeline, reporting opportunities, progress, and forecasts to the UK leadership team.
* Support the development of export-led sales strategies into Asian markets in collaboration with the Leeds-based team.
Trade Shows & Market Representation
* Represent the company at major Asian trade shows and exhibitions (e.g. Domotex Asia/Chinafloor, CIFM/interzum Guangzhou).
* Network with potential customers, distributors, and partners, generating qualified sales leads and follow-up opportunities.
* Deliver confident, professional presentations of our brands and product offerings at events and meetings.
Commercial Negotiation & Market Insight
* Lead commercial negotiations with partners and customers on pricing structures, volumes, exclusivity, and commercial terms.
* Provide market intelligence on Asian flooring trends, customer demand, competitor positioning, and emerging sales opportunities.
* Act as a cultural and language bridge between Asian partners and the UK team to support effective communication and deal-making.
Internal Collaboration & Reporting
* Travel to the Leeds head office regularly to align with sales, marketing, and leadership teams.
* Maintain accurate records of sales leads, partner discussions, and agreements using CRM and internal systems.
* Provide clear feedback from the market to inform product positioning, marketing strategy, and sales planning.
The Successful Applicant
* Fluent Mandarin Chinese and English (spoken and written) – essential
* UK-based with right to work in the UK and unrestricted international travel capability
* Strong willingness to travel internationally (up to 50–70% during peak trade show periods)
* Proven experience in sales, business development, account management, or international trade
* Demonstrated ability to negotiate commercial terms and close deals
* Confident networker with strong interpersonal and presentation skills
* Self-motivated, organised, and comfortable working independently while collaborating remotely
* Full UK driving licence (desirable)
Desirable Experience
* Previous sales or business development experience in Asia or with Asian markets
* Background in flooring, interiors, building materials, furniture, or related sectors
* Experience working with distributors, wholesalers, or B2B trade customers
* Familiarity with international trade shows and B2B lead generation
* Experience living or working in China or wider Asia
Salary & Benefits
* Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
* Performance-based bonus / commission linked to sales and commercial growth
* Company pension
* All international travel expenses fully covered
* Holiday allowance
* Long-term career progression within a growing, family-owned business
Location
* UK-based (ideally within reasonable commuting distance to Leeds, or willing to travel)
* Home-based with regular visits to our Leeds head office (a few days per month)
* Significant international travel across Asia, primarily China, for trade shows, partner meetings, and business development activity
UK Trade Furnishings Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from candidates with strong Asia market experience or cultural understanding.