Business Development Executive

About Shared Apprenticeships

Shared Apprenticeships is a not-for-profit Social Enterprise and Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Agency. We employ, mentor, and support apprentices working across the construction industry and the wider built environment.

To achieve our mission, we partner with local contractors to create high-quality work placements and employ local apprentices for those opportunities. Our apprentices develop skills in trades such as Bricklaying, Carpentry, Groundworks, Plastering, and Scaffolding, as well as in technical roles including Site Management, Quantity Surveying, and Design & Build.

We are proud that 100% of our completers progress to higher apprenticeships and/or full-time employment within the industry.

Main Purpose of the job:

The Business Development Executive will be at the heart of driving sales and business growth for Shared Apprenticeships.

You will focus on engaging new clients, developing partnerships for hosting apprentices on temporary placements (sales) , and expanding our network of host contractors across the South West

This role is ideal for a confident, target-driven professional who thrives on building relationships, identifying opportunities, and making a tangible difference through skills development in the construction sector.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales

• Develop and implement strategies to drive business growth and meet sales targets.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking, cold calling, social media, email campaigns, and attendance at industry events.
• Promote the benefits of hosting Shared Apprenticeships to potential clients, selling the hire of apprentices effectively.
• Manage the full sales cycle, from lead generation through to contract negotiation and deal closure.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with prospective customers, ensuring consistent engagement and follow-up.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and regional developments to inform sales strategy.
• Track and report on sales performance using KPIs.
• Represent Shared Apprenticeships at networking events, careers fairs, and other relevant forums.

Account Management

• Maintain strong, positive relationships with existing clients and partners.
• Identify and act on opportunities for account growth and added value.
• Ensure smooth onboarding and support for new clients.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to ensure high-quality service delivery.

About You

You are an energetic and proactive professional who enjoys connecting with people and driving growth. You'll be motivated by targets, confident in your communication, and passionate about making a social impact through apprenticeships.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven success in business development and/or B2B sales.
• Experience generating and converting new business opportunities.
• Knowledge and use of CRM systems.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Competent IT user (Microsoft Office and digital tools).
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• A full UK driving licence and access to transport (role involves regional travel).

Desirable:

• Experience within apprenticeships, training, or construction sectors.
• Knowledge of the South West construction market.
• A "can-do" attitude and passion for helping young people start their careers.

Location: Home-based with regular travel across the South West

Hours: Full time or Part-time

Salary: Up to £32,000 per annum FTE (pro rata for part-time)

Contract: Permanent

South West Shared Apprenticeship Company Limited trading as Shared Apprenticeships is an Equal Opportunities and Disability Confident employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the community.

Please read the job description and person specification before applying

We reserve the right to close this vacancy once we have received sufficient applications. If you have not been contacted within two weeks of your application, please assume that your application has not been successful and will not be progressed to the next stage

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £29,264.00-£32,000.00 per year

Experience:

• Business development: 1 year (required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Exeter EX4 3AT