Business Development Manager – AgriTech

Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) is an applied agri-technologies centre focused on advancing crop productivity and yield around the world through uptake of new technologies. As they continue to grow their activities and increase their scientific capabilities & services they are now seeking another Business Development Manager (BDM) to add to their team.

The BDM will help to develop a pipeline of new business, and manage existing customers, to improve CHAP’s market position and achieve financial growth. A key requirement is a thorough knowledge of the agriculture and agrifood sectors, and also a good understanding of CHAP’s capabilities, and the science behind them. The target market for CHAP’s sophisticated science facilities ranges from startups and SME’s right through to leading crop protection, fertiliser and seed businesses. This role will have a strong sales focus and the ability to sell complex scientific solutions and services to a wide range of clients will be essential.

Main responsibilities

·         Identifying sales opportunities and recognising the potential for innovation in the Agriculture and Agrifood sectors

·         Build business relationships across the sector.

·         Grow and retain existing accounts by presenting them with new solutions, services and support where possible.

·         Readily develop a rapport with new clients, set targets for sales, and provide necessary support

·         Help to engage companies/businesses in collaborative research projects, working closely with the Innovation Team

·         Prospect for new business by networking, cold calling, advertising or other means, working closely with the Marketing Team on marketing campaigns and content.

·         Make presentations to clients and prospective clients.

·         Help to develop solutions and services that meet clients’ current and future needs.

·         Negotiate and close business deals.

·         Attend sector events and conferences, and provide feedback and information on the broader sector.

·         Develop specialist knowledge of the Agri-Tech sector, and of CHAP’s capabilities, in order to be able to respond professionally and with confidence to enquiries.

Person Specification

• A scientific degree, and keen interest in AgriTech science and solutions
• Proven track record in business development or sales in Agriculture, Horticulture, AgriBusiness or AgriFood
• Target driven, confident and professional
• Able to build rapport and effective relationships easily and quickly across a broad spectrum of stakeholders
• Strong sales skills will be required from prospecting through to closing skills and planning.
• Ability to sell complex service solutions confidently.
• Experience of working in the sector and an established network of contacts
• Strong communication and networking skills
• Team Player with collaborative style of work
• Willing to travel around the UK on average 2 – 3 days per week.
• Full driving licence

Location: Home based but with UK wide travel

Salary: Attractive package & benefits

For a confidential discussion and comprehensive job profile please call Margaret Wilkinson of Hunter Chase Consultants on 07921 454473 or email your CV to margaret@hunterchaseconsultants.co.uk