Channel Development Manager

Job Specification Channel Development Manager / Business Development Manager About the Opportunity Our client is an established provider of asset finance and leasing solutions, supporting businesses with flexible funding options to acquire the equipment and assets they need to grow. As part of its continued growth strategy, the business is looking to appoint a commercially driven Channel Development Manager / Business Development Manager to expand its introducer network, develop strategic partnerships and generate new business opportunities. This is an excellent opportunity for a relationship-led sales professional with experience in asset finance, leasing or commercial finance who can identify new channels, build long-term partnerships and deliver sustainable business growth. The Role Reporting to the senior management team, the successful candidate will be responsible for developing new business opportunities through intermediary relationships, strategic partnerships and direct business development activity. The role will suit an ambitious, proactive individual who combines strong relationship management skills with a demonstrable ability to identify opportunities, negotiate commercial agreements and convert prospects into profitable business. Key Responsibilities Channel Development & Relationship Management

• Identify, develop and establish new introducer, broker and intermediary relationships to expand the company's distribution network.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing channel partners to maximise business opportunities and increase repeat business.
• Develop strategic partnerships with relevant businesses, suppliers, manufacturers and other introducers.
• Create and implement channel development strategies to support the company's growth objectives.
• Act as a key point of contact for partners, delivering a professional and commercially focused service. Business Development & Sales
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities across target markets and industry sectors.
• Develop a robust pipeline of prospective partners, customers and commercial opportunities.
• Manage the full business development lifecycle, from initial prospecting and relationship building through to negotiation and onboarding.
• Promote the company's asset finance and leasing solutions, identifying opportunities to meet customers' funding requirements.
• Achieve agreed sales, revenue and new business targets.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity and emerging opportunities to identify areas for growth. Commercial & Account Management
• Develop and execute account plans for key introducers and strategic partners.
• Maximise the commercial potential of existing relationships through cross-selling, referrals and increased activity.
• Negotiate commercial terms and partnership arrangements in line with business objectives.
• Work closely with internal credit, underwriting, operations and customer service teams to ensure a smooth customer journey.
• Maintain accurate records of pipeline activity, forecasts and business development performance.
• Ensure all activity complies with relevant regulatory requirements, internal policies and lending criteria. The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be a commercially minded, confident and self-motivated business development professional with a strong understanding of relationship-led sales. You will ideally have:
• Proven experience in business development, channel development or relationship management within asset finance, leasing or commercial finance.
• An established network of introducers, brokers, intermediaries or other relevant commercial contacts.
• A demonstrable track record of generating new business and delivering against sales targets.
• Experience developing and managing strategic partnerships and third-party distribution channels.
• Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to identify and convert opportunities into profitable business.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to manage a sales pipeline, prioritise opportunities and work independently.
• A proactive, entrepreneurial approach, with the drive to contribute to the wider growth of the business. Personal Attributes
• Relationship-focused, with the ability to build trust and credibility at all levels.
• Commercially astute and results-driven.
• Confident in identifying opportunities and opening new doors.
• Organised, self-motivated and comfortable working autonomously.
• Professional, adaptable and solutions-oriented.
• A collaborative team player who can work effectively across multiple business functions. The Opportunity This is an opportunity to join a growing finance business where relationship development and new business generation are central to its commercial strategy. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on business growth, develop valuable strategic partnerships and play an important role in expanding the company's presence within the asset finance and leasing market. A competitive remuneration package is available, including a performance-related incentive, alongside the opportunity for long-term career development