Local Business Development Manager

Job Title: Local Business Development Manager
Location: Walton Audi

About the Role:

We are looking for an ambitious and proactive Local Business Development Manager to join our team at Walton Audi. This role focuses on strengthening relationships with local businesses, building our corporate client base, and driving fleet sales across the region.

As a Local Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for creating opportunities within the local business community, understanding their unique requirements, and providing tailored Audi solutions to meet their mobility needs. You’ll act as the key link between our dealership and business clients, ensuring they experience the same exceptional service that defines our brand.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives on networking, building long-term relationships, and has the drive to deliver results in a competitive marketplace.

Key Responsibilities:

• Business Development: Identify, target, and secure new business opportunities within the local market, building a strong pipeline of prospects.
• Client Relationship Management: Develop and maintain lasting partnerships with business decision-makers, fleet managers, and company directors.
• Consultative Selling: Understand client needs and provide expert advice on Audi’s business and fleet solutions, including financing, leasing, and whole-life costs.
• Networking: Represent Walton Audi at business events, networking forums, and local trade associations to increase brand visibility and generate leads.
• Account Management: Ensure ongoing support for existing business customers, maximising retention and repeat business opportunities.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the sales and aftersales teams to deliver a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.
• Sales Targets: Consistently achieve and exceed agreed fleet and business sales objectives.
• Reporting: Provide accurate forecasts and performance updates to management, ensuring a clear understanding of business growth.

About You:

We are seeking a motivated, professional, and results-driven Local Business Development Manager with a proven ability to win and retain business clients. You should be confident in networking, comfortable engaging with senior decision-makers, and have the commercial awareness to identify opportunities for growth.

A background in fleet, B2B sales, or corporate account management is advantageous, ideally within the automotive sector. A full UK driving licence is essential.

Skills and Attributes:

• Commercial Awareness: Strong understanding of business sales and fleet operations.
• Excellent Communication: Able to influence and negotiate effectively at all levels, both face-to-face and over the phone.
• Relationship Builder: Natural ability to establish trust and long-term business relationships.
• Sales Focused: Driven to achieve targets with a strategic and professional approach.
• Organised and Efficient: Capable of managing multiple accounts, leads, and opportunities simultaneously.
• Team-Oriented: Works collaboratively with colleagues across sales and aftersales.
• Professional & Presentable: Represents Walton Audi and the Drift Bridge Group brand with confidence and integrity.

About the Company:

Founded in 1936 by the Frost family, Drift Bridge Group has grown from a single Epsom-based showroom into a thriving family-run business. Since 1974, we have proudly represented Audi and Volkswagen, expanding our operations to include a second Epsom showroom in 1999, an additional Audi branch in Walton in 2006, and our Trade Parts Specialists (TPS) division in Chessington (2013) and Guildford (2016).

Today, in its third generation of family ownership, Drift Bridge Group remains a privately-owned dealership, supplying new and used Audi, Honda, and Volkswagen vehicles. Our commitment extends beyond sales; we offer comprehensive aftersales solutions and operate TPS branches in Chessington, Croydon, and Guildford.

Our family-focused values shape our business culture, ensuring that we hold our customers and employees in equally high regard. At Drift Bridge Group, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels like a part of our family. You can expect a warm welcome and excellent customer service at any of our showrooms.

As an Audi Accredited Sales Executive at Walton Audi, you'll play a crucial role in our continued success. Our loyal customers are the foundation of our enduring business, and we give back by offering competitive prices, expert advice, and first-class service. We believe in fair and honest employment practices, treating every team member as part of our family to minimise staff turnover and foster a rewarding workplace.

We provide stability and transparency, expecting passion and a willingness to learn from all our employees. At Drift Bridge Group, teamwork is essential, and every individual's contribution is valued. Join us and become part of a dynamic team where your hard work is recognised and rewarded.

Benefits:

• Employee Recruitment Referral Payments: Earn extra rewards by referring talented individuals to join our team.
• Occupational Health Services: We prioritise your health and well-being, providing services to ensure a supportive and healthy work environment.
• Bonus Plans: Unlock your potential with enticing bonus plans tailored for eligible positions, rewarding your hard work and dedication.
• Exclusive Vehicle Benefits: Enjoy the opportunity to drive a new car with short-term contracts, fixed monthly payments, and zero deposits. Additionally, benefit from significant discounts on new and used cars.
• Discounted Servicing and Parts: Maintain your vehicle affordably with employee-exclusive discounts on servicing, parts, and accessories.
• Increased Holidays with Service: Celebrate your dedication with holidays that increase with each year of service.
• Birthday Off: Enjoy a special day off on your birthday, because your milestones matter to us.
• Company Pension Scheme: Secure your financial future with our robust pension plan.
• Life Assurance: Benefit from comprehensive life assurance for members enrolled in our pension scheme, ensuring financial support for your loved ones.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Embrace a healthier lifestyle with our Cycle to Work Scheme, offering cost savings on a new bike.
• Company Discounts: Unlock special savings on a variety of products and services as a token of appreciation for being part of our team.
• Long Service Benefits: Recognise and reward your commitment to our company over the years with special perks and acknowledgments.
• 24/7 Employee Support: Access round-the-clock assistance from trained specialists, providing comprehensive support for emotional well-being, mental health, legal guidance, physical wellness, and financial advice.

Equal Opportunities:

At Walton Audi, we value diversity and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, religion, belief, or disability.

Join us and take the lead in shaping our business sales success. Apply today and become part of the Walton Audi team!