Business Development Manager
Permanent
21 September 2025
up to £65,000 + bonus

About the role
In this role, you will be responsible for generating new business opportunities and driving sustainable revenue growth within the FMCG key market. You will identify and pursue strategic opportunities, build and maintain strong client relationships, and contribute to expanding our market presence. By delivering tailored solutions that meet customer needs, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued success and competitiveness of our business.
Key responsibilities:
Lead Generation & Prospecting:
- Independently research and build a qualified pipeline of FMCG companies in need of logistics and warehousing solutions.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for inbound and outbound warehousing, fulfilment, distribution, and value-added services.
Business Development:
- Leverage your existing FMCG network to identify and engage key decision-makers.
- Develop tailored value propositions that align with client requirements and showcase the strengths of the Tilbury 26a facility.
- Secure meetings, manage the sales cycle, and close new business opportunities.
- Work with the Asset Manager to define solution design and commercial proposition.
Market Intelligence:
- Stay abreast of market trends, competitor activity, and customer needs within the FMCG and logistics sectors.
- Provide feedback to internal stakeholders to enhance service offerings and operational alignment.
Reporting, Forecasting & KPIs:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the CRM system.
- Deliver regular pipeline reports, forecasts, and performance metrics to the senior management team.
- Set and achieve monthly and quarterly targets for lead generation, meetings booked, and deals closed.
Developing and Implementing Strategies:
- Creating business development plans, setting sales targets, and contributing to the overall business growth strategy.
Attending Events and Conferences:
- Networking and representing the company at industry events.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a commercially minded professional with a proven track record of delivering growth in the FMCG sector. You will have strong business development skills, excellent communication and relationship-building abilities, and the drive to exceed targets in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, demonstrating both initiative and resilience to achieve outstanding results.
Skills & Qualifications:
- Proven track record in business development, sales, or commercial roles within logistics, warehousing, or supply chain — specifically in the FMCG vertical.
- Demonstrated ability to generate and convert leads independently.
- A well-established and active network of FMCG contacts across manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
- Strong knowledge of warehousing operations and third-party logistics (3PL) services.
- Self-starter mentality with exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
- Proficiency in CRM tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Familiarity with warehouse automation.
- Understanding of port logistics.
- UK driving licence and willingness to travel when required.
What Forth Ports can offer you:
At Forth Ports, our people are our priority, and we are committed to creating a flexible, open, and supportive working culture. As part of our team, you will enjoy:
- A competitive salary
- Defined bonus
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- A defined pension scheme and life assurance
- Discretionary bonus
- Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your family
- Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking
- Attractive Family Friendly Policies
- Employee discount platform offering discounts on UK-wide restaurants, car rentals, and holidays
- GymFlex health club memberships
We value diversity and inclusivity, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.
How to Apply:
If you are an experienced Business Development Manager and looking to continue your career as part of a forward-thinking and supportive team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter when submitting your application via this link