Are you a commercially-minded professional with a passion for sport and high-value partnerships? Our client, a specialist in Sports Hospitality, is looking for a Business Development Lead to drive growth across the UK. This newly created role is your chance to identify, pursue, and convert commercial opportunities, lead bids and proposals, and develop high-value partnerships that strengthen the organisation’s presence across major sporting events.
You will work closely with internal teams and stakeholders to produce tailored materials, coordinate inputs, and secure rights acquisitions that deliver long-term commercial growth. This role requires someone confident in navigating complex proposals, building strong relationships, and driving strategic initiatives that make a measurable impact.
What You’ll Be Doing:
* Build and manage a qualified UK commercial pipeline that supports long-term growth in sporting events
* Lead proposals and bids, producing tailored materials and coordinating inputs to secure high-value partnerships and rights acquisitions
* Support and grow existing partnerships to enhance renewals and long-term value
* Develop strong relationships with rights holders, event organisers, and commercial partners
* Maintain accurate pipeline reporting to support senior decision-making and forecasting
* Provide insights and recommendations to shape commercial strategy and maximise growth opportunities
* Analyse market trends, fan behaviours, and sponsorship opportunities to stay ahead of competitors
* Represent the organisation at key events to expand networks and identify new opportunities
* Lead post-bid reviews to improve effectiveness and future strategy
* Ensure all work meets governance standards and aligns with brand values
What We’re Looking For:
* Proven experience delivering bids and proposals, producing tailored materials, and coordinating cross-functional inputs
* Strong track record in securing and converting high-value commercial opportunities in sporting events
* Excellent financial and commercial acumen, with experience assessing viability and profitability
* Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
* Results-oriented, proactive, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to join a high-performance, supportive team, shape a newly created role, and work across high-profile sporting events in the UK. You will lead the acquisition of premium partnerships and rights, influence commercial strategy, and help deliver world-class experiences, all while enjoying a collaborative culture and hybrid working from Richmond a few days per week.