An exciting opportunity has arisen for a forward-thinking Business Development Director to join the growing senior leadership team at Jenks and Cattell Engineering. This newly created role forms a key part of the company’s strategic expansion and is designed to support the achievement of ambitious growth targets.
As the sales team evolves, the business is restructuring to manage new and existing partners as separate divisions, while maintaining a collaborative approach across departments.
With a proud heritage dating back to 1886, Jenks and Cattell Engineering is a well-established and highly reputable metal fabrications company. The business specialises in metal pressing, laser cutting, welding, and CNC machining—delivering high-quality, precision-engineered solutions across a wide range of sectors including automotive, off-highway, defence, construction, and medical. Continuous improvement and a focus on innovation remain at the heart of operations, supported by the financial strength and investment backing of parent company Newship Group, which has an annual turnover of £200 million.
Jenks and Cattell Engineering is now seeking a dynamic, results-driven Business Development Director to lead its commercial growth strategy and expand market presence. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying and securing new business opportunities, cultivating long-term strategic partnerships, and driving sustained revenue growth.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this is a senior leadership role that will work closely with sales, production, commercial, quality, and engineering teams. A central responsibility will be to help shape the structure of the newly defined sales division—differentiating new business acquisition from key account management while fostering a strong culture of cross-functional collaboration.
Education
* A relevant degree or professional qualification in business, sales, or leadership is desirable.
* Education or training in manufacturing is beneficial.
Experience
* Strong understanding of B2B service sales processes, particularly in engineered or technical products.
* Proven track record of success in business development within metal fabrications, construction, defence, automotive, or related industries.
* Extensive experience in developing and implementing successful sales strategies.
* Strong network of contacts within the construction and engineering sectors.
* Demonstrable experience managing large-value projects.
Special Skills
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
* Strong commercial acumen and financial awareness.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
* Highly motivated and results-oriented mindset.
* Strategic thinking with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
* Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
* Effective leadership and management capabilities.
* Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
* A passion for the metal fabrications industry and UK manufacturing.
* Full UK driving license and willingness to travel as required.
Responsibilities
Strategic Business Development
* Develop and implement a comprehensive business development strategy to achieve ambitious growth targets.
* Identify and analyse market trends, competitor activity, and potential new markets.
* Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline.
* Contribute to the development of the company's overall strategic plan.
Client Relationship Management
* Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, engineers, and contractors.
* Act as the primary point of contact for major clients, ensuring excellent customer service.
* Identify and address client needs, providing tailored solutions.
Sales and Marketing
* Lead the sales process for new customers from initial enquiry to contract award.
* Prepare and deliver compelling presentations and proposals.
* Negotiate contracts and agreements to maximise profitability.
* Oversee the development and implementation of marketing initiatives.
* Attend industry events and exhibitions to network and generate leads.
Team Leadership
* Potentially manage and mentor a team of business development professionals.
* Foster a collaborative and high-performance sales culture.
* Provide regular sales reports and forecasts to senior management.
Technical Understanding
* Develop a strong understanding of metal fabrication processes, materials, and applications.
* Collaborate with the technical team to ensure accurate and competitive proposals.
* Be able to understand and convey technical information to clients.
Job Benefits
* Competitive salary and performance-based bonus.
* Company car or car allowance.
* Pension scheme.
* Health care.
* Opportunities for professional development.
* A dynamic and supportive work environment.
* Onsite parking.
* Bonus scheme.
* Service related holiday awards.
* A collaborative and innovative company culture that values input from a cross-functional team at all levels.
* Mental health support onsite.
* CSR focus for continuously improving our environment, charitable efforts and sustainability.
Health and Safety
* Work in a safe manner and observe the site health and safety rules and procedures.
* Not misuse or interfere with anything provided to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others.
* Correctly use any PPE and equipment provided.
* Report any safety concern promptly to their supervisor and take action to prevent injury if it is safe to do so.
* Report all injuries that occur to them at work and obtain the necessary first aid treatment.
* Help in the investigation of accidents to prevent recurrence.
Culture
* Where required, support meetings with representatives from appropriate departments in order to establish action plans for improving build quality and reducing internal failures.
* Communicate efficiently to all, be data driven, informative and supportive where required.
* Liaise and communicate with other departments, customers, suppliers and other service providers.
* Promote positivity in our products, our company and all that we do.
Attitude
* Comply with company policy, quality procedures and the Health and Safety rules at all times.
* Behave in a courteous, respectful and professional manner towards all employees, customers and visitors.
* Encourage good communication and working relationships across the business.
* Share job knowledge and skills and support other team members with their workload.
* Keep your team informed of any issues and take a proactive approach to problem solving.
* Suggest ways to improve quality, productivity and the work environment.
* Complete training and development to increase professional competence.
* Can work independently with minimal supervision but where required, has the ability to work or lead problem solving activities within teams.
Flexibility
* The responsibilities within this job description reflect the general tasks and expectations of the role; however, it does not restrict management's right to reassign duties or responsibilities based on business needs at that time.
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