Head of Business Development - Financial, Professional & Business Services
Join to apply for the Head of Business Development - Financial, Professional & Business Services role at MIDAS Manchester's Inward Investment Agency
Are you a dynamic relationship builder with a passion for securing new business? Want to help shape Greater Manchester’s economic future?
MIDAS, one of the UK’s leading inward investment agencies, is recruiting a Head of Inward Investment - Financial, Professional & Business Services (FPBS) to spearhead efforts in attracting FPBS businesses and foreign investment to Greater Manchester. This strategic role involves expanding the presence of foreign‑owned companies, driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening the region’s FPBS ecosystem, which already contributes over 20% to the local economy and boasts established strengths in Banking, Advisory, Insurance, and Legal Services, alongside emerging leadership in Fintech, Legal Tech, and Green Finance.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and execute a robust business development strategy for Greater Manchester’s FPBS sector, working closely with GMCA and partner organisations to ensure alignment and impact.
* Deliver annual targets for inward investment and job creation by attracting new foreign direct investment, R&D initiatives, and high‑value business expansions.
* Identify and engage international companies, building long‑term relationships with C‑level decision‑makers through a consultative sales approach to position Greater Manchester as a prime investment destination.
* Lead strategic business development campaigns in collaboration with the MIDAS marketing team to promote FPBS strengths across global markets and generate a strong pipeline of qualified leads.
* Oversee business development activities and manage the MIDAS budget, while influencing and integrating partner initiatives and resources to maximise outcomes.
* Provide effective line management to a small team of sector‑focused professionals, ensuring optimal resource allocation to meet organisational goals.
* Guide investment enquiries from initial contact to successful conclusion, offering tailored support including research, stakeholder engagement, property sourcing, and government facilitation.
* Manage strategic aftercare for new and existing investors, coordinate with sector stakeholders, and foster deep, sustainable integration of businesses within the Greater Manchester ecosystem.
About You
* Demonstrated success as a seasoned sales professional with deep expertise in consultative selling techniques.
* Solid understanding or hands‑on experience in at least one Financial, Professional, or Business Services (FPBS) sub‑sector.
* Ideally brings a proven track record in securing foreign direct investment and managing international business relationships.
* Strong commercial acumen with the ability to engage and influence senior decision‑makers across diverse industries.
* Familiarity with Greater Manchester’s market dynamics and the FPBS ecosystem, including key stakeholders and growth areas.
* Highly driven, resilient, and entrepreneurial in approach, with a clear focus on delivering impactful outcomes.
* Skilled at building credibility and trust with potential investors and strategic partners.
* Naturally curious and committed to developing deep subject matter expertise to stay ahead of emerging trends.
Skills Required
* Strong grasp of the complete sales cycle, from lead generation to deal closure.
* Proven ability to negotiate effectively at senior levels, securing high‑value outcomes.
* Collaborative team player with a track record of delivering results through cross‑functional teamwork.
* Experienced in leading and managing teams, with a focus on performance and development.
* Demonstrated project management skills, consistently delivering initiatives on time and within budget.
* Commercially astute, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic decisions.
* In‑depth knowledge of FPBS sectors and international market dynamics.
* Highly organised and efficient, with the ability to thrive in fast‑paced, target‑driven environments.
About MIDAS
To learn more about MIDAS, please visit: About MIDAS - Invest In Manchester | MIDAS - Manchester's inward investment promotion agency
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to increasing workforce diversity and offer a guaranteed interview to applicants who meet the essential criteria and either have a disability or are from a diverse ethnic community. If this applies to you, you can request consideration under this scheme during the application process. Your request will be shared only with the Hiring Manager and Internal Recruitment Team. We also aim to make our recruitment process inclusive and accessible. If you need reasonable adjustments or have any general enquiries at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact careers@growthco.uk or call us on 0161 237 4447.
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