Business Development Manager (NE & Yorks)

Arriva is a leading European passenger transport partner, operating in 11 countries across the UK and Europe. With around 35,000 colleagues delivering more than 1.5 billion passenger journeys each year, we connect people and communities safely, reliably and sustainably. With strong roots dating back to 1938 and an ambitious growth and sustainability agenda, Arriva is focused on building a strong and sustainable future.

We are looking for a Business Development Manager to join our Business to Business team (B2B), supporting the growth of revenue, passenger numbers and strategic partnerships across the region.

This role will play a key part in delivering future growth by identifying, developing and optimising sales opportunities that support budgeted profit, revenue and increased patronage. The successful candidate will build strong relationships with new and existing B2B customers, secure commercially viable contracts and develop partnerships that contribute to the region's success.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced sales professional who enjoys building relationships, creating new opportunities and delivering measurable results. The role requires someone who is commercially focused, highly organised and capable of working autonomously while managing a diverse portfolio of customers and prospects.

Working closely with Commercial, Marketing, Administration and Operational teams, you will help maximise sales opportunities, strengthen customer relationships and deliver sustainable growth across the North East & Yorkshire region.

You'll spend time working across our network of depots and offices, with regular travel required and a primary presence in Sunderland (Doxford) and Stockton-on-Tees. We welcome applications from candidates across the region and can offer flexibility on your base location for the right individual.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Revenue Growth

Develop and deliver a regional sales plan to support revenue, profit and patronage growth targets.

Identify, secure and negotiate commercially viable business opportunities with local and national organisations.

Develop new revenue streams and respond proactively to market opportunities and changes.

Deliver agreed revenue and growth targets in line with budget expectations.

Account Management & Partnerships

Build and maintain strong relationships with existing key accounts, ensuring retention and growth.

Monitor account performance and implement actions to maximise customer value and revenue opportunities.

Develop mutually beneficial partnerships with employers, local attractions and other organisations that support customer and revenue growth.

Provide customers with expert guidance on Arriva ticketing products and fulfilment schemes.

Sales Performance & Reporting

Manage and maintain a robust sales pipeline, ensuring clear visibility of opportunities and future revenue.

Provide accurate forecasting and reporting against agreed KPIs and budget targets.

Maintain comprehensive customer records and ensure account information remains accurate and up to date.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

Work closely with Commercial and Marketing teams to develop sales materials, campaigns and customer propositions.

Collaborate with Administration and Operational teams to deliver an excellent customer experience.

Promote collaborative working across the wider UK Bus team.

Identify opportunities to improve sales processes, customer engagement and commercial performance.

What We'd Like From You

We welcome applications from ambitious, commercially driven individuals with a passion for building relationships and delivering growth.

Candidates will preferably:

Have a proven track record of generating new business and achieving revenue growth.

Have experience managing sales pipelines, forecasting and performance reporting.

Demonstrate strong commercial awareness and contract negotiation skills.

Be confident building relationships with stakeholders at all levels, including senior management.

Have excellent communication, influencing and presentation skills.

Be highly organised, self-motivated and able to work independently.

Demonstrate strong attention to detail and a results-focused approach.

Be committed to collaborative working and delivering excellent customer outcomes.

It would also be beneficial if candidates:

Have experience within transport, travel, retail, hospitality or another commercially focused environment.

Have experience developing strategic partnerships and managing key accounts.

Have experience working alongside marketing teams to support customer acquisition and growth initiatives.