Business Development Director

Aon Hewitt; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - GBP 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading risk solutions provider in Chelmsford is seeking a Business Development Director to foster client relationships and develop business strategies. This hybrid role allows for virtual and office work, focusing on generating leads, managing client relationships, and collaborating with teams to provide tailored solutions. Ideal candidates will have strong negotiation and communication skills, along with a proven business development background. Join us to impact client success across sectors in the UK.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Global Wellbeing Days

Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development and acquiring new business.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with senior stakeholders.
• Solid understanding of the UK insurance market.

Responsibilities

• Identify potential clients and develop business growth strategies.
• Generate leads to build a robust client pipeline.
• Establish strong relationships with prospective clients.

Skills

Business development

Client relationship management

Negotiation

Communication skills

Strategic thinking

Tools

CRM and sales-enablement tools

Job description

Business Development Director– Chelmsford

Are you interested in joining a team that delivers risk solutions to a diverse range of sectors across the UK? Do you thrive on establishing high-level contacts and developing strong client relationships? We are seeking a Business Development Director to become part of our dynamic team!

This hybrid role offers the flexibility to work virtually, as well as from Aon's Chelmsford and flagship London offices.

Aon is in the business of better decisions

At Aon, we shape decisions for the better to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. As an organization, we are united through trust as one inclusive team and we are passionate about helping our colleagues and clients succeed.

What the day will look like

• Client Acquisition: Collaborate with regional and branch leadership to identify potential clients and develop strategies for business growth. Conduct market research to understand client needs and industry trends.
• Lead Generation: Focus on generating leads to build a robust pipeline of prospective clients.
• Relationship Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with prospective clients, understanding their business objectives and needs. Present Aon's solutions effectively, positioning Aon as the preferred choice over competitors.
• Sales Strategy: Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve business development goals. Prepare regular reports on activities, interactions, and performance for management review.
• Networking: Expand local business networks by attending industry events, conferences, and seminars to promote Aon's services.
• Negotiation: Negotiate terms and conditions with prospects to establish Aon's revenue basis and ensure profitable returns, utilising Aon's full range of services.
• Product Knowledge: Gain a thorough understanding of Aon's solutions and services. Stay informed about industry changes and regulatory requirements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Engage with Project Management, Broking, and Claims teams to effectively manage the new business process to ensure that proposals are delivered successfully and meet expectations.
• International Coordination: Work with overseas Aon offices when necessary to leverage global resources and expertise.
• Internal-Relationship Building: Develop strong working relationships with Aon's specialists, including the Client Management and Service teams. This collaboration is crucial to ensure that the most suitable team is presented to prospective clients, aligning Aon's offerings with client needs.
• Compliance: Ensure adherence to Aon Corporate's Business Rules and Statutory/FCA regulations, while operating within the Aon UK Limited Risk Management Framework and policies. This includes actively participating in risk management activities, such as completing mandatory training, to mitigate any potential adverse effects on the business or the reputation of any Group company.

How this opportunity is different

In this role, you will engage with clients that are often national or multinational entities, sometimes with a global reach. CEOs and CFOs are looking for a broker who can offer a localised relationship while delivering a comprehensive, tailored approach using Aon's extensive capabilities. Success in this position requires building a strong internal network within Aon to effectively understand and convey the wide array of innovative solutions available. Corporate clients typically need bespoke insurance programs along with risk management and risk transfer services. In addition to serving as an insurance broker, the team provides clients with claims services and risk management advice across various industries.

Skills and experience that will lead to success

• Proven experience in business development and new‑business acquisition, with a strong record of generating and converting high‑quality leads.
• Strong communication, influencing, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage senior‑level stakeholders confidently.
• Solid understanding of the UK insurance market, commercial dynamics, and sector‑specific trends to inform client conversations.
• Strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to design effective pursuit strategies and tailor solutions to client needs.
• Analytical capability to interpret data, market insights, and prospect information to prioritise and qualify opportunities.
• Strong project and pipeline management skills, able to balance multiple pursuits and ensure high‑quality, timely delivery.
• Proficiency with CRM and sales‑enablement tools, using data and technology to drive disciplined business development activity.
• Collaborative approach, working effectively with broking, claims, project management, and specialist teams to present the full breadth of Aon’s capabilities.

How we support our colleagues

In addition to our comprehensive benefits package, we encourage an inclusive workforce. Plus, our agile environment allows you to manage your wellbeing and work/life balance, ensuring you can be your best self at Aon. Furthermore, all colleagues enjoy two “Global Wellbeing Days” each year, encouraging you to take time to focus on yourself. We offer a variety of working style solutions for our colleagues as well.

Our continuous learning culture inspires and equips you to learn, share and grow, helping you achieve your fullest potential. As a result, at Aon, you are more connected, more relevant, and more valued.

Aon values an innovative and inclusive workplace where all colleagues feel empowered to be their authentic selves. Aon is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.

Aon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran, marital, domestic partner status, or other legally protected status. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive workplace. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know. You can request accommodations by emailing us at [e-mail] or your recruiter. We will work with you to meet your needs and ensure a fair and equitable experience.