Business Development Specialist

About PlantSea PlantSea is a materials science company developing a seaweed-based biopolymer as a plastic-free, biodegradable alternative to PVOH, the film used in laundry capsules and dishwasher tablets. The company operates from Liverpool Science Park and the OpTIC Technology Centre in St Asaph, with a team of around 15, and is supported by impact investors. The role PlantSea has an established network of commercial partners, and the scale of these relationships now requires a dedicated, full-time owner. The Business Development Manager will take ownership of this portfolio, develop existing partnerships towards commercial agreements, and identify new opportunities. This is a technical, relationship-led role with long sales cycles, reporting to Rhiannon Rees, CEO and working closely with the R&D and operations teams. Key responsibilities -      Own and manage PlantSea's existing commercial relationships, providing a professional and responsive point of contact for partners -      Progress partners through technical evaluation to commercial agreements -      Generate and qualify new leads, and manage follow-up to convert opportunities -      Conduct market research to track industry trends, map the competitive landscape and identify target segments -      Prepare proposals, presentations and sales materials in collaboration with R&D -      Maintain accurate records in the CRM, manage the pipeline and provide regular reporting to the leadership team -      Represent PlantSea at industry events, customer meetings and virtual meetings, including international travel Essential experience and skills -      Experience in business development or B2B sales, working with FMCG companies, brands or other B2B customers such as film manufacturers -      A track record of managing complex, long-term commercial relationships -      Proven lead generation and pipeline management skills -      Proficiency with CRM systems and productivity tools, and confidence with spreadsheets, reporting and basic data analysis -      Strong analytical skills to interpret market data and business metrics and support strategic decisions -      The ability to engage confidently with technical stakeholders and coordinate input from scientific colleagues -      Excellent written communication and presentation skills -      A demonstrable interest in sustainability, the circular economy and the reduction of plastic in consumer products Desirable -      A degree in Business, Marketing, Environmental Studies or a related field, or equivalent practical experience -      Experience of working in international markets -      A scientific or technical background Benefits Company pension, 31 days holiday entitlement including bank holidays, EMI options,  How to apply Please send a CV and covering letter to recruitment@plantsea.co.uk by 31 st  October 2026.