Head of Business Development

2 days ago

London, UK, United Kingdom Cognitive Talent Full time

Job Title: Business Development Leader – Executive Search (Retained Business)


Location: London


Company Overview: Join a challenger in the executive search world, famous for its commitment to providing top-tier talent solutions for senior leadership roles. Our clients span various industries, and we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional, tailored recruitment and leadership solutions. We seek a dynamic and experienced Business Development Leader to drive growth, build strong client relationships, and elevate our business to new heights on a Global scale.


Position Overview: As the Business Development Leader, you will play a critical role in expanding our client base, focusing on securing retained executive search engagements. This senior leadership position requires a strategic mindset, proven sales capabilities, and deep expertise in executive search or related industries. You will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, nurturing relationships with senior-level executives, and positioning our firm as a trusted partner for high-profile searches.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Business Development:
  • Identify, develop, and secure new retained executive search opportunities across multiple industries.
  • Build and execute a comprehensive business development strategy focused on driving revenue growth through retained search engagements.
  • Conduct market research to identify potential clients, industry trends, and new business opportunities.
  • Client Relationship Management:
  • Cultivate and maintain long-term relationships with C-suite executives, HR leaders, and decision-makers at target organisations.
  • Develop a deep understanding of clients' needs, industry challenges, and talent acquisition goals to offer tailored executive search solutions.
  • Position the company as a trusted advisor and partner in executive search.
  • Sales and Revenue Generation:
  • Lead the end-to-end sales process for retained business, from prospecting to contract negotiation and closure.
  • Meet and exceed revenue targets by developing and managing a robust sales pipeline.
  • Present value propositions and solutions to senior executives, demonstrating a strong understanding of the retained search model and its benefits.
  • Collaboration and Leadership:
  • Work closely with the executive search delivery team to ensure smooth execution of search mandates.
  • Provide market intelligence, client insights, and feedback to help refine service offerings and positioning.
  • Lead and mentor, fostering a high-performance sales culture.


Key Requirements:

  • Proven track record of success in business development, sales, or client management within recruitment or executive search.
  • Experience with retained executive search business models is highly preferred.
  • Strong network of C-suite contacts and relationships with decision-makers across multiple industries.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and drive initiatives with minimal oversight, while also being a collaborative team player.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on results and client satisfaction.
  • Strategic thinker with a deep understanding of market dynamics, talent trends, and leadership challenges.


What We Offer:

  • A track record of high performance and an ability to deliver excellent results consistently is key. In return for your hard work, you’ll be offered a competitive top salary and benefits package with bonuses/commission and fantastic incentives programme
  • Opportunity to work with a high-calibre team in an established and reputable firm.
  • Autonomy and flexibility to drive your own success.
  • A supportive, collaborative, and results-driven work environment with a diverse team.
  • Career growth opportunities within a growing firm.
  • Private medical insurance
  • A fantastic training and development programme
  • Unlimited holiday days
  • Choose your working model / office / hybrid / remote / hours
  • The opportunity to partake / qualify for our Global incentives
  • Employee wellbeing through various programmes

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