[Hiring] Business Development Manager @CAF Group

Role Description

The Business Development Manager will play a pivotal role in securing new business opportunities and managing the end-to-end bid process. This role combines strategic business development with meticulous bid management to ensure the successful acquisition of contracts within the UK rail industry. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of and established contacts in the UK rail sector, strong analytical and interpersonal skills, exceptional project management skills, and a proven commercial acumen.

Responsibilities

• Bid Management:
  • Lead the bid management process from initial opportunity identification through to submission and contract award.
  • Consider CAF position relative to the competition to develop winning strategies for consideration by senior management.
  • Develop and manage bid plans, ensuring all activities are aligned with timelines and requirements.
  • Coordinate and challenge cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, Social value and manufacturing, across the UK and CAF SA, to compile comprehensive and compelling competitive bids.
  • Ensure all bids are high quality and compliant with client specifications and regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for each bid.
  • Prepare and present bid reviews and approval documentation to senior colleagues within the sales & commercial team.
• Business Development:
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the UK rail industry, focusing on rolling stock projects.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, and industry bodies.
  • Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, competitor activities, and potential areas for growth.
  • Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and meetings to promote our capabilities and solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a related field is desired.
• Strong understanding of the UK rail market, including regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Proven track record of commercial success ideally through successfully managing complex bids and securing high-value contracts.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in developing cost models and pricing strategies.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive and results-oriented approach.
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to challenge and give feedback in a constructive manner.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and client needs.

Requirements

• Regular travel throughout the UK and international travel is required.
• Flexibility to travel at short notice, where necessary, would be advantageous.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave.
• Excellent workplace pension scheme (with up to 10% contribution from us).
• Generous health care cash plan.
• Bike2Work scheme.
• Professional Sponsorship scheme for career development.
• Flexible Working policy and Family Friendly culture.
• Paid volunteering days.
• Support for social value initiatives, including tree-planting and company-wide donation drives.