Business Development Manager / Director

We are looking to appoint a Business Development Manager / Director to join our team, based out of our Newbury office, to lead and drive growth across the Thames Valley and Central South Coast regions.

This is a pivotal role within our work‑winning function, responsible for identifying, shaping and securing high‑value opportunities while building a strong, sustainable pipeline of work. You will take ownership of developing and implementing a data‑driven business development strategy, ensuring a targeted and informed approach to market engagement and opportunity conversion.

What You'll Be Doing

• Developing and delivering a strategic, data‑led work‑winning plan aligned to regional and sector priorities
• Identifying and securing medium to large value construction opportunities across target sectors
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, consultants and key stakeholders
• Analysing market intelligence, pipeline data and customer insights to inform decision‑making
• Leading early engagement strategies and positioning for key opportunities
• Working closely with pre‑construction, bid and operational teams to convert opportunities into wins
• Representing the business at industry events, forums and client meetings
• Supporting continuous improvement in business development processes and tools

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in a Business Development Manager / Director role within construction or the built environment
• Strong track record of securing medium to large value projects
• Experience in one or more of the following sectors: Defence, Healthcare or Life Sciences (preferred)
• Strong understanding of regional markets across the Thames Valley and Central South Coast
• Demonstrable experience developing and implementing data‑driven strategies
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing and relationship‑building skills
• A proactive, strategic and results‑focused approach

Why Join Wates?

• Play a key role in shaping and delivering regional growth strategy
• Work across high‑value, strategically important sectors
• Be part of a collaborative and high‑performing team
• Opportunity to influence major project opportunities from early engagement
• Competitive salary and benefits package, with flexibility where possible