National Business Development Manager

Job Title: Business Development Manager

Location: Manchester (UK scope)

Who are we?

Nippon Express UK is entering an exciting phase of growth, and we’re expanding our sales team to match. We’re looking for exceptional Business Development Managers who can help drive the next stage of our success.

Part of the global Nippon Express Group, headquartered in Tokyo, we are a leading logistics provider delivering air, ocean, road freight, warehousing, and supply chain solutions. With over 73,000 employees across more than 50 countries, we combine global scale with local expertise to support customers worldwide.

What are we looking for?

This is a high-impact, field-based sales role focused on winning new business across our full logistics portfolio. You’ll work with a mix of SME and multinational clients, engaging senior stakeholders and procurement teams, managing tenders, and building long-term strategic partnerships.

As we continue to strengthen our UK sales capability, we are looking for experienced Business Development Managers with a strong background in air, sea, and road freight sales. This role will be a national position covering all of the UK.

The role

You’ll be out in the market, identifying, targeting, and converting new business opportunities across NX’s air, ocean, road, and warehousing solutions. Success in this role requires a proactive, resilient approach to sales - from prospecting and lead generation through to closing deals and onboarding clients.

You’ll play a key role not just in delivering revenue, but in building lasting customer relationships and strengthening the Nippon Express brand in your region.

Requirements

Business Development & Sales

• Identify and develop new business opportunities in air and ocean freight markets
• Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline through prospecting, networking, and lead generation
• Achieve and exceed sales targets and revenue goals
• Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and proposals to clients
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service agreements

Client Relationship Management

• Develop long-term relationships with key clients and stakeholders
• Act as the main point of contact for high-value accounts
• Understand customer supply chain needs and offer tailored logistics solutions
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and retention

Market Analysis & Strategy

• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and market conditions in air and ocean freight
• Identify new trade lanes, vertical markets, and growth opportunities
• Contribute to the development of sales strategies and business plans
• Provide market intelligence and feedback to senior management

Collaboration & Internal Coordination

• Work closely with operations, pricing, and customer service teams to ensure seamless service delivery
• Coordinate with global offices and partners to develop competitive solutions
• Support implementation of new business and ensure smooth onboarding

Pricing & Solution Development

• Collaborate with pricing teams to develop competitive freight solutions
• Prepare quotations, tenders, and RFQs/RFPs
• Ensure solutions are aligned with customer requirements and company profitability

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Track sales performance using CRM systems (Salesforce)
• Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, opportunities, and forecasts
• Prepare regular sales reports and pipeline updates for management

Networking & Representation

• Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and networking functions
• Build relationships with carriers, agents, and partners

Benefits

What can we offer?

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Monthly car allowance
• Growth opportunities within a dynamic and global organization
• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• Exposure to international markets and logistics networks
• Life Assurance 4x Salary
• Private Healthcare & EAP
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Free parking at all of our sites