Customs Business Development Manager
Greys Specialist Recruitment are working on behalf of an established and growing logistics business seeking a Customs Business Development Manager to contribute to continued growth across customs, freight forwarding and European logistics services.
This role offers a commercially driven opportunity for a customs professional to join a company that has heavily invested in digitalising post‑Brexit customs processes and simplifying cross‑border movements for importers, exporters, hauliers and wider logistics customers.
Role
As a Customs Business Development Manager you will identify, develop and convert new business opportunities across customs clearance, import/export operations, transit movements and broader international trade services. You will work closely with senior customs leadership to shape and execute commercial strategy while managing the full 360‑sales process from lead generation to client onboarding and ongoing account development.
Key Responsibilities
* Identify, target and win new business opportunities across customs clearance, import/export, transit and wider cross‑border logistics services.
* Generate leads through outbound calls, email, LinkedIn, market research, referrals, networking and existing industry contacts.
* Build relationships with freight forwarders, hauliers, importers, exporters, manufacturers and businesses moving goods across UK and European borders.
* Sell customs solutions consultatively, understanding client requirements and positioning the right service.
* Manage the full sales cycle from prospecting, qualification and proposal through to negotiation, close and onboarding.
* Collaborate with customs operations teams to ensure new clients are onboarded smoothly and receive a strong service experience.
* Act as a key commercial contact for customs clients, supporting retention, account development, cross‑selling and upselling opportunities.
* Provide market intelligence on UK/EU customs legislation, trade changes, competitor activity and customer behaviour.
* Work with marketing, operations and senior leadership to support wider commercial strategy and identify new growth channels.
* Represent the business professionally at client meetings, industry events and when required during European travel.
Requirements
* Proven B2B sales, business development or commercial experience within customs clearance, freight forwarding, logistics, supply chain or international trade.
* Specific experience within customs, customs clearance, customs brokerage or customs‑led logistics services.
* Strong understanding of UK and EU import/export processes, customs documentation, transit procedures and border requirements.
* Knowledge of customs declaration processes and systems, ideally including CDS.
* Ability to generate your own leads and manage a full 360 sales process.
* Strong consultative sales skills with the ability to understand operational problems and position tailored solutions.
* Confidence dealing with senior stakeholders, business owners, logistics managers, freight forwarders and import/export teams.
* Relationship‑led approach with the ability to build trust and create long‑term customer partnerships.
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify cross‑sell and upsell opportunities.
* Excellent communication, organisation and follow‑up skills.
* Proactive, self‑motivated and comfortable working independently.
Suitable Backgrounds
* Customs Business Development Manager
* Freight Forwarding Business Development Manager
* Customs Sales Manager
* International Trade Business Development Manager
* Logistics Business Development Manager
* Customs Brokerage Sales Executive
* Freight Sales Executive with strong customs exposure
* Commercial Manager within customs, forwarding or cross‑border logistics
Working Pattern
The role will initially be office‑based in Preston during the training period. Hybrid working is available after probation, typically structured as three days in the Preston office and two days working from home. Office days are flexible, although working from home on both a Monday and Friday in the same week would not usually be available. The probation period is staggered at 2, 4 and 6 months depending on performance and progress. Although primarily a desk‑based sales role, customer visits are encouraged where commercially useful, and reasonable travel and accommodation costs will be covered.
Package and Benefits
* Salary of £40,000 – £50,000 depending on experience.
* Strong OTE, to be discussed at interview.
* 35‑hour working week.
* Hybrid working after training/probation.
* Birthday day off after one year’s full service.
* Enhanced annual leave after two years’ service.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Health cash plan.
* Life assurance / death in service cover.
* Retail discount scheme.
* Cycle to Work scheme.
* Tech discount scheme.
* Learning and development opportunities.
* Social events and team activities.
* Recognition awards.
Summary
This is an excellent opportunity for a customs‑aware sales professional who wants to join a growing, digitally led logistics business with a clear market proposition and genuine scope to make an impact. The successful candidate will be commercially sharp, confident generating new business and capable of building long‑term customer relationships across customs, freight forwarding and international trade.
Location: Preston, Lancashire
Working Pattern: Full‑time
Hybrid: Available after training/probation (three days office‑based in Preston, two days from home)
Travel: Some UK and European travel may be required
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