Head of Business Development, Big Bus Tours

Ukinbound; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading tour operator is looking for a Head of Business Development to oversee Local & Agent sales in London. This role involves planning, prospecting, and account management, with a focus on driving revenue and enhancing customer satisfaction. Ideal candidates will have strong communication skills, a minimum of 3 years in sales, preferably in travel, and the ability to lead teams effectively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and analytical skills are essential, along with creativity and problem-solving capabilities.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant sales experience in the travel industry preferred.
• Proficient in managing partner relationships.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead all Local & Agent sales activities for London.
• Set the London Partner Sales strategies and direction.
• Identify and deliver new business and partners.

Skills

Team management

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Customer relationship management

Sales strategy development

Education

University degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Big Bus Tours is the world’s largest operator of open-top sightseeing tours, carrying nearly six million customers a year across many major cities and operating a fleet of around 500 vehicles. Founded in 1991, the company now employs over 2,000 people and was listed in The Sunday Times Top Track 250 in 2018 and 2019. Backed by the private equity firm Exponent, Big Bus Tours is driving an ambitious digital transformation and portfolio expansion, including brands such as Tour Dubai, Touristation, Tower Tours, and the upcoming Big Duck Tours.

The business culture is defined by ambition, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer experiences. Following significant transformation over the past three years, Big Bus Tours is focused on growth through smart technology, digital innovation, new market opportunities, and enhanced customer value.

Key responsibilities

• The Head of Business Development will lead all Local & Agent sales activities for London, including planning, prospecting, and account management, whilst leveraging best practices to maximise sales. This role has commercial responsibility for the Agent Sales & Local Trade channel’s performance.
• To work closely with and in conjunction with the central Sales team, to proactively set the London Partner Sales strategies and direction, taking into account local market dynamics and competitive forces, and to deliver all elements of the Partner Sales plan to budget.
• To deliver all Agent Sales & Local Trade initiatives to achieve and exceed the targets on revenue, net profitability, passenger volume, and customer satisfaction.
• To identify and deliver new business and partners.
• Ability to prioritise effectively and deliver high-quality work to deadlines.
• Able to adapt quickly to changing business needs and priorities.
• Demonstrates creative thinking and problem-solving.
• Excellent writing skills, able to communicate messages clearly and persuasively.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Able to present clearly and influence stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership.
• Strong negotiation and presentation skills.
• Experience managing, leading, and motivating a team.
• Strong analytical skills; able to use data to identify insights and trends.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is essential.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) (or equivalent tools).
• University degree preferred but not required.
• 3 + years’ relevant sales experience (travel industry preferred), with a proven track record in managing partner relationships.
• Experience in delivering partner-focused solutions based on customer needs and the ability to solve complex problems effectively.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects at a time while paying strong attention to detail.
• Budget management & reporting experience in managing budgets and ensuring diligent use of budgets to attain maximum impact.

How to apply

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