Business Development Manager (BDM)

Bowker Group; Preston; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-owned logistics firm in Preston is seeking a Business Development Manager to drive new business prospects across the North West and enhance existing customer relationships. The ideal candidate will have robust B2B sales experience in logistics with a proven track record in securing new clients. Strong communication and presentation skills, along with proficiency in data-driven sales strategies, are essential. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established company committed to excellence in the logistics sector.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in new business development, ideally within 3rd Party logistics, transport, or supply chain.
• Strong focus on customer acquisition and revenue growth.
• Confident communicator with strong presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Proactively prospect and secure new business opportunities within the North West.
• Identify target customers and develop a strong sales pipeline.
• Prepare and submit tenders, pricing proposals, and presentations.

Skills

New business development

Customer acquisition

Strong presentation skills

Data-driven sales

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Title: Business Development Manager (BDM)

Location: Bamber Bridge, Preston
Reporting to: Commercial Director

About Bowker

Bowker is a long-established, family-owned logistics business with a proud heritage and a strong reputation for excellent service. Operating from 11 UK sites, we manage a fleet of over 260 vehicles, 500 trailers, and over 1.5 million sq. ft. of warehousing.

Our operations are diverse and include:

• Dedicated fleet solutions
• Network distribution (Hazchem and Palletline)
• An International department established in 1961

We are proud to have been featured in the Top 10 Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) operator, reflecting our commitment to excellence and industry leadership.

The Role

We are seeking a determined and commercially driven Business Development Manager to join our team based at Bamber Bridge, Preston. The primary focus of the role is to prospect, win, and grow new transport business across the North West, while also supporting the development of existing customer relationships.

Experience within logistics is desirable, but more important is a proven ability to identify opportunities, build relationships, and consistently win new customers. B2B sales experience is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively prospect and secure new business opportunities within the North West and other areas of geographical relevance
• Identify target customers and develop a strong sales pipeline
• Prepare and submit tenders, pricing proposals, and presentations
• Work closely with operational teams to ensure solutions are deliverable and competitive
• Attend customer meetings and site visits, both independently and alongside the General Manager
• Support relationship management and account growth for existing customers
• Manage and maintain pipeline on CRM to track progress and opportunities
• Maintain accurate sales records and activity reporting

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in new business development, ideally within 3 rd Party logistics, transport, or supply chain
• Strong focus on customer acquisition and revenue growth
• Confident communicator with strong presentation skills and ability to influence at all levels
• Comfortable working with data and using insights to drive sales
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Self-motivated, resilient, and target-driven
• Able to work collaboratively across sales, operations, and management

What We’re Looking For