Business Development Manager
Manchester | £35,000–£40,000 + commission | Permanent
I’m recruiting a Business Development Manager for a well-established employability and training organisation based in Manchester. They deliver government-funded programmes that genuinely help people back into work — and this role sits right at the heart of that mission.
If you’ve got a background in employer engagement, B2B sales, or account management within employability, welfare-to-work, or the funded training space, this is worth a look.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for building and growing employer relationships across the region, generating sustainable job opportunities for programme participants. It’s a target-driven role with real variety — you’ll be out meeting employers, running group presentations, and working closely with internal delivery teams to match candidates to the right vacancies.
What You’ll Be Doing
*Sourcing and developing employer relationships to generate exclusive and ringfenced vacancies for programme participants
*Selling the organisation’s employer services offer confidently — in person and via digital platforms
*Running regular account reviews with key employers, fortnightly minimum with major partners
*Collaborating with Employment Advisor teams to align employers with Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes and Pre-Employment Training
*Hitting monthly KPIs across Sales, Service, and Specialist Support
What They’re Looking For
*Proven B2B sales or account management experience — ideally within employability, training, or public sector commissioning
*Strong understanding of the local employment market and key growth sectors
*Track record of exceeding targets and managing relationships at all levels
*Confident presenter — comfortable face-to-face and on digital/webinar platforms
*High digital literacy and solid MS Office skills
The Package
*£35,000–£40,000 base + commission
*31 days annual leave (inc. bank holidays) + birthday day off
*Option to buy up to 5 additional days leave
*Medicash healthcare plan
*CPD support and career development opportunities
*Staff recognition awards and social events
To apply, send your CV to Aidan Peart at Forward Role Recruitment or apply directly through this listing.
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