Summary
The Head of Business Development will drive Lotus Engineering’s global growth by converting its core technical strengths—vehicle dynamics, control systems, vehicle architectures, and lightweight engineering—into high-value commercial opportunities. A critical dimension of the role is elevating Lotus Engineering’s market visibility through a clear, compelling marketing and PR strategy that reinforces its position as a world-leading performance and advanced engineering partner. The role will also unlock external revenue streams across adjacent capabilities, including low-volume vehicle manufacturing, shaping a strong and sustainable commercial pipeline.
What You’ll Do
- Core Capability Commercialisation
- Client Acquisition & Key Account Development
- Revenue Growth & Pipeline Ownership
- Expansion into Adjacent Competencies
- Bid & Proposal Leadership
- Cross-Functional Integration
- Leadership & Capability Development
Essential
- Strategic Growth & Market Positioning
- Define and execute a business development strategy centred on Lotus Engineering’s core competencies
- Identify priority markets and sectors where Lotus’ expertise delivers clear competitive advantage
- Position Lotus Engineering as a premium partner in performance, efficiency, and advanced vehicle development
- Translate Lotus’ core capabilities in vehicle dynamics, controls systems, vehicle architectures, and lightweight engineering into compelling client propositions
- Package integrated engineering solutions that address OEM and client challenges
- Work closely with technical teams to align market needs with evolving capabilities
- Secure new business with OEMs, Tier 1s, and emerging automotive and technology companies
- Develop and grow strategic accounts with a focus on long-term partnerships
- Build strong senior-level relationships to influence early-stage programme opportunities
- Own revenue targets and deliver sustainable growth across core and adjacent services
- Build and manage a high-quality, diversified opportunity pipeline
- Ensure disciplined forecasting, reporting, and conversion of opportunities
- Drive external commercial opportunities in complementary Lotus capabilities, including low-volume vehicle manufacturing
- Identify and develop programmes that leverage Lotus’ end-to-end offering
- Collaborate across Lotus divisions to create integrated commercial propositions
- Lead the development of differentiated, high-quality proposals aligned to Lotus’ strengths
- Ensure technical excellence is translated into clear commercial value for clients
- Drive win strategies for complex, multi-disciplinary engineering programmes
- Work closely with engineering, programme delivery, and manufacturing teams to ensure alignment from sales through execution
- Enable seamless handover of won business into delivery with clear scope and expectations
- Influence internal prioritisation of high-impact opportunities
- Lead and develop a high-performing business development function
- Embed best practices, tools, and governance across the commercial lifecycle
- Foster a culture focused on technical credibility, client value, and commercial discipline
- Proven senior leadership experience in business development, marketing, or commercial roles within automotive or advanced engineering
- Demonstrated success in combining business development with effective marketing and brand-building strategies
- Experience developing and executing marketing and PR campaigns, including media engagement and thought leadership
- Proven track record of winning complex engineering programmes with OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers
- Strong network across automotive and mobility sectors
- Excellent communication (written and verbal), influencing, and stakeholder management skills
- Strong commercial acumen with ownership of revenue targets and pipelines
Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams, including marketing and communications.
Desirable
- Experience within an engineering consultancy or performance-focused automotive brand
- Strong understanding of vehicle engineering, particularly vehicle dynamics, control systems, vehicle architecture, or lightweight design
- Exposure to low-volume vehicle manufacturing or niche vehicle programmes
- Knowledge of emerging trends such as electrification, software-defined vehicles, and advanced controls
- International experience across key automotive markets
- Experience working with media, PR agencies, or managing external communications partners
- MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification
What We Offer
- Access to a Company Car scheme (ECOS)
- 25 Vacation Days + Bank Holidays
- Performance Bonus: non-contractual bonus scheme
- Future-Proof Pension scheme
- Private Healthcare coverage
Additional Information
- This role will be working from our Hethel plant.
