The Bukola Group is an executive search and talent advisory consultancy partnering with forward‑thinking organisations across the UK. As a trusted search partner, we support clients navigating complex, fast‑moving environments by securing exceptional senior talent. We focus on leadership appointments that shape culture, sharpen strategy, and elevate operational performance. Our work is guided by discretion, insight, and a commitment to delivering standout leadership talent.
Business Development Director
Department: Business Development
Reporting to: Head of Sales
Location: Remote, with periodic travel to Head Office, UK
Employment Type: Full Time
A market‑leading organisation within the Soft FM sector is seeking an accomplished Business Development Director to play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering its national growth strategy. Operating at pace and scale, the business is recognised for challenging traditional FM delivery models and introducing innovative, technology‑enabled service solutions to a diverse client base.
This senior leadership position is critical to the organisation's expansion plans. You will be responsible for originating, developing, and converting major new business opportunities, while representing the company at executive level across industry, client, and partner networks. You will act as a strategic adviser to both the internal leadership team and external stakeholders, bringing commercial insight, market intelligence, and a strong command of complex solution selling.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional gravitas, commercial acumen, and the ability to influence and build credibility with senior decision‑makers across the UK.
Key Responsibilities
Drive the growth agenda by securing high‑value, strategically aligned contracts through a sophisticated consultative sales approach.
Build and maintain an influential network within priority sectors, representing the organisation with authority and professionalism.
Lead the identification, shaping, and pursuit of national opportunities, developing propositions that are commercially robust and aligned with client needs.
Own and direct the full sales cycle, from market engagement and bid strategy through to negotiation and successful close.
Serve as a senior brand ambassador, raising the organisation's profile and positioning it as a leading FM partner of choice.
Work closely with bid, estimating, and operations leaders to develop compelling, innovative solutions and ensure excellence in tender submissions and client presentations.
Oversee the strategic handover of secured contracts into Operations to ensure a seamless mobilisation and strong client experience.
Uphold high standards of data integrity and pipeline discipline within the CRM system.
Skills & Experience
Extensive experience in senior business development roles, ideally within FM or outsourced services.
Demonstrated success in securing major, multi‑site or national contracts through complex solution selling.
Strong commercial insight and the confidence to challenge, influence, and advise at Executive and C‑suite level.
Proven track record of leading tender strategies, negotiations, and high‑stakes client engagements.
Deep understanding of market dynamics, competitive positioning, and strategic account development.
Exceptional networking skills with the ability to build relationships at senior levels across targeted sectors.
Ambitious, self‑driven, and able to operate with autonomy while contributing to wider business strategy.