Full job descriptionCompany Development Manager
The Role
Thornhill Galleries is looking for an experienced, commercially minded Company Development Manager to join our team.
This varied, hands-on role covers business development, sales, marketing, digital development and commercial operations. Working closely with the two Directors and wider team at our New Malden premises, the successful candidate will manage day-to-day requirements while identifying ways to develop the companies, strengthen client relationships and generate new business.
Business Development & Sales
*Identify and develop new business opportunities.
*Research and approach prospective clients including interior designers, architects, developers, contractors and other trade professionals.
*Develop relationships with new, existing and previous clients through telephone, email and other channels.
*Maintain a structured sales pipeline and ensure opportunities are followed up professionally.
*Welcome showroom clients, understand their requirements and assist with product selection, availability and initial pricing.
*Manage straightforward sales enquiries from initial contact through quotation, follow-up and sale, progressing to more complex sales as product knowledge develops.
*Research new markets, clients, suppliers, sales channels, partnerships and commercial opportunities.
*Carry out competitor and market research and support the Directors with business development projects.
CRM & Client Database
*Take ownership of the CRM and client database, keeping information accurate and properly categorised.
*Build the database of relevant trade contacts and segment data for targeted marketing.
*Maintain records of conversations, enquiries and follow-ups and produce mailing lists for campaigns.
Marketing & Brand Development
*Assist with the company’s marketing strategy and calendar.
*Manage social media and develop engaging website and social content.
*Prepare and distribute email newsletters, brochures and other marketing materials.
*Organise targeted brochure distribution to UK and international trade professionals.
*Maintain consistent branding, imagery and messaging.
*Develop case studies and project features.
*Identify opportunities for editorial coverage, advertising, publicity, collaborations and exhibitions.
*Liaise with media contacts and publications, including negotiating advertising rates.
Photography & Content
*Coordinate photography of completed projects and products, including arranging access with previous clients.
*Liaise with photographers, editors and retouchers and maintain an organised photography library.
*Identify projects suitable for case studies, website and social media content.
Website & Digital Development
*Assist with developing the Thornhill Galleries and associated company websites.
*Manage products, descriptions, imagery and website content.
*Review usability, presentation and functionality and suggest improvements.
*Work with external developers and SEO specialists.
*Manage Google PPC campaigns alongside external specialists where appropriate.
*Monitor website traffic, enquiries, analytics and campaign performance.
Third-Party Platforms
*Manage Thornhill Galleries’ presence on platforms including 1stDibs.
*Maintain accurate listings, descriptions, images and pricing.
*Manage enquiries, shipping estimates and quotations and follow up potential sales.
*Monitor platform performance and identify other suitable marketplaces.
Commercial & Operational Support
As part of a small business, the role will also support wider operations where necessary, including:
*Supporting the Directors with projects and commercial initiatives.
*Coordinating information between clients, suppliers and colleagues.
*Following up outstanding supplier information, quotations and deliveries.
*Assisting with occasional overdue invoice follow-up.
*Supporting internal processes and ensuring projects maintain momentum.
*Undertaking occasional minor PA/administrative work and supporting colleagues during busy periods.
Administration is not intended to be the primary focus of the role.
The Candidate
We are looking for someone proactive, commercially aware and extremely well organised, ideally with at least five years’ relevant experience in business development, sales, marketing, account management or project management.
Experience within interiors, architecture, design, luxury products, property or another high-end client-facing industry would be useful, although not essential.
Essential Skills
*Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
*Confident dealing with clients, suppliers and third parties by telephone, email and face to face.
*Strong commercial instincts and an interest in new business.
*Proactive, organised and able to prioritise independently.
*Comfortable multitasking and managing an evolving workload.
*Strong attention to detail and ability to work calmly to deadlines.
*Excellent online research skills.
*Professional, discreet, positive and flexible.
*Comfortable working within a small company and supporting different areas when required.
*Interested in a long-term career with the company and willing to adapt as the role develops.
Digital & Software Skills
Good working knowledge required:
*Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
*WhatsApp, Zoom and Microsoft Teams
*Website and online research tools
Experience with the following would be advantageous:
*CRM & email marketing platforms
*Social media & CMS platforms
*Google Analytics/Ads/PPC
*Adobe Photoshop/Creative Suite
*AutoCAD or other design-editing software
Photoshop is desirable, provided candidates are willing to learn the basic skills required.
Location
The position is office based and candidates should ideally live within a sensible commuting distance of the office.
Package
*Salary: £45,000 per annum.
*Full-time position.
*28 days’ annual leave including bank holidays.
*Company pension scheme.
*Free on-site parking.
*Join a long-established family business with an excellent reputation.
*Varied role with scope to influence company development and grow in responsibility.
*Friendly and supportive working environment.