Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager – Hybrid Sales Role with Autonomy, Growth & Great Brands

The Animal People Recruitment Company are proud to be exclusively partnering with a fast-growing consumer brand in the pet and lifestyle space to recruit a commercially minded and motivated Business Development Manager.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a business that blends creativity, ambition, and a strong team culture. Whether you’re earlier in your career and ready to step up, or already experienced and looking for a role where you can make a real impact, this position offers variety, ownership, and progression.

What You’ll Be Doing:

This hybrid role combines 2 days a week in the field and 3 days in the Hertfordshire office, giving you the chance to develop new business while managing and growing existing accounts.

• Field Sales (2 days/week): Build strong relationships with independent pet and party retailers, introducing the brands, securing new listings, and expanding the customer base in your local territory.
• Account Management (3 days/week): Take ownership of a portfolio of mid-tier national and international trade accounts — supporting their growth, converting leads, and maximising opportunities.
• Attend major UK and international trade shows (5–10 per year), representing the brands and turning interest into partnerships.
• Collaborate closely with your manager and wider team to continuously refine strategy, exceed targets, and build your commercial skill set.
• Over time, the role is expected to grow into a full-time Account Manager position as the field territory is developed and the team expands.

• Solid B2B sales experience, in field sales, retail account management, or trade support roles.
• Background in pet care, beauty, party goods, or wider FMCG sectors is ideal — but we’re open to commercial talent from any fast-moving consumer industry.
• A confident and proactive communicator who builds rapport easily and enjoys relationship-based selling.
• Target-driven, self-motivated, and keen to take initiative — you’ll be trusted to manage your own time and results.
• A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regularly for customer visits and events.
• Someone who’s hungry to learn, contribute, and grow with a supportive and ambitious business.

• Salary: £33,000–£35,000 DOE
• Hybrid working: 2 days on the road, 3 days in the Hertfordshire office
• International trade show travel (5–10 times/year)
• Ongoing mentorship, training, and progression opportunities
• A path to develop into a full-time Account Manager within 6–12 months
• A friendly, high-energy team with strong values and a clear growth plan