POSITION: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
LOCATION: HARLOW, ESSEX
JOB TYPE: PERMANENT, FULL TIME (37.5 HOURS PER WEEK)
INDUSTRY TYPE: ACCOUNTANCY
JOB REF: AACSL-006
SALARY: £55,200 PER ANNUM
NO. OF VACANCIES: 1
JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Are you a commercially focused and results-driven business development professional ready to advance your career in a dynamic accountancy practice? We are seeking a Business Development Manager to join our team and support the continued growth of our accounting, tax, payroll and business advisory services.
Key Responsibilities:
As a Business Development Manager in our accounting firm, you will be responsible for planning and implementing business development strategies, identifying new market opportunities and building strong relationships with prospective and existing clients. You will work closely with the directors and senior accounting team to increase the firm’s client base, service income and market presence.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop your expertise in professional-services sales, client relationship management and strategic business growth.
Key Responsibilities
· Work with the directors and senior management to develop sales strategies, annual business development plans, service priorities and revenue targets.
· Identify and pursue new business opportunities for statutory accounts, corporation tax, self-assessment, VAT, payroll, bookkeeping, management accounts, company secretarial and business advisory services.
· Conduct market and competitor research to assess prospective client sectors, service demand, pricing trends and opportunities for the firm’s growth.
· Generate and qualify new business leads through professional networking, referrals, digital enquiries, direct outreach, business events and strategic partnerships.
· Discuss with prospective clients to understand their business activities, accounting requirements, compliance needs and commercial objectives.
· Prepare tailored service proposals, fee quotations, presentations and engagement recommendations in consultation with the firm’s accountants and senior management.
· Manage client’s onboarding process from initial enquiry through proposal, negotiation, acceptance and formal handover to the relevant accounting or client-service team.
· Develop and maintain referral relationships with solicitors, mortgage brokers, financial advisers, lenders, consultants and other professional service providers.
· Manage key client relationships, obtain feedback, support client retention and identify appropriate opportunities for additional accounting and advisory services.
· Maintain accurate records of leads, proposals, client communications, conversion stages and expected revenue using the firm’s customer relationship management system.
· Prepare regular reports and recommendations for senior management.
· Keep up to date with accountancy-sector developments and changing client requirements, while ensuring all business development activities comply with confidentiality, data protection and anti-money laundering procedures.
Requirements:
· Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Marketing, Finance, Accounting or a related field, or equivalent relevant professional experience.
· A minimum of 2 years of experience in business development, account management or client acquisition, preferably within an accountancy or other professional-services firm.
· Good understanding of the services provided by an accountancy practice, including accounts, taxation, VAT, payroll, bookkeeping and business advisory services.
· Strong market research, analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to turn commercial information into practical business development recommendations.
· Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation and professional relationship-management skills.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and customer relationship management systems; familiarity with accountancy software is desirable.
· Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple prospective client opportunities, priorities and deadlines.
· High standards of integrity, confidentiality and professional conduct, with an understanding of data protection and anti-money laundering responsibilities.
How to Apply:
If you have a strong record of developing new business, building professional relationships and achieving sustainable commercial growth, we invite you to apply for the position of Business Development Manager. Please submit your CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are suitable for the role.
This is a permanent, full-time position with competitive benefits. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Closing date for all applications is 23rd of August 2026
Pay: £55,200.00 per year
Work Location: In person
