Interim Business Development Manager
Hybrid – 1–2 days per week in Leeds
We are looking for an experienced Business Development Manager to drive the growth of our Ofsted-regulated education services, on an interim basis for approximately 3-6 months. This role suits someone with strong sector insight, strategic capability, and the ability to build trusted relationships with commissioners and operational teams.
Direct education experience is ideal, but we also welcome strong candidates from health and social care backgrounds, particularly those with experience in supported accommodation, residential children’s services, or commissioning.
Key responsibilities:
* Partner with regional operations to drive service growth and maximise occupancy.
* Lead the Placements Team to ensure responsive, high-quality referral handling and matching.
* Analyse market trends, competitor activity, and commissioner needs to shape service development.
* Identify and secure new business opportunities in the education sector.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with local authority commissioners and external partners.
* Provide regulatory insight, ensuring compliance with Ofsted standards.
* Produce clear reporting, dashboards, and insights for senior leaders.
About you :
* 3+ years’ experience in business development, commissioning, or strategic leadership in children’s social care or related sectors.
* Experience managing placement/referral processes or similar high-volume workflows.
* Strong commercial awareness with a track record of developing partnerships with local authorities.
* Excellent communication and influencing skills.
* Analytical mindset, confident interpreting data and market intelligence.
* Relevant qualification in Social Care, Business Development, Housing, Education, or related fields.