Head of Business Development – Rail
Location: Humber Quays
Reports to: Managing Director / Board of Directors
Contract: Full-time / Permanent
About Us
We are a leading civil engineering contractor with a strong track record in delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects across the UK rail sector.
Our business combines in-house design expertise with strong project delivery capability, covering station upgrades, depot works, infrastructure enhancements, and M&E packages.
We work with Train Operating Companies (TOCs), local authorities, and strategic rail partners to deliver safe, sustainable, and innovative solutions from concept to completion.
Role Overview
The Head of Business Development will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the company’s growth strategy within the rail industry.
This role will focus on developing new and existing client relationships, identifying opportunities, securing a healthy pipeline of work, and positioning the business on key frameworks and tender lists.
The successful candidate will combine strategic thinking with hands-on client engagement to drive sustainable, profitable growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and implement the business development strategy, aligned with company objectives and growth targets
- Build, develop, and maintain strong relationships with TOCs, local authorities, Network Rail (where appropriate), and key stakeholders in the rail sector
- Identify and qualify new business opportunities, frameworks, and project pipelines
- Monitor industry developments, competitor activity, and upcoming tenders to inform strategic positioning
- Oversee and coordinate bid strategies, supporting pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs), tender submissions, and presentations
- Production of high quality work winning presentations and tender quality deliverables
- Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking forums to enhance visibility and reputation
- Collaborate with the in-house design, commercial, and operations teams to ensure opportunities align with delivery capability and profitability
- Report regularly to the Board on pipeline, client development activities, and market intelligence
- Mentor and support junior business development staff (if applicable)
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to shape the future growth of a dynamic and ambitious business
- Collaborative, forward-thinking working environment
- Career development and progression opportunities at senior leadership level
Requirements and Qualifications
Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Proven track record in business development, work winning, or client management within the rail or wider civil engineering sector
- Strong client network across TOCs, local authorities, and/or Network Rail supply chain
- Excellent understanding of rail industry frameworks, procurement routes, and commercial drivers
- Strategic thinker with the ability to identify and convert opportunities into secured projects
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to present persuasively at senior level both internally and externally
Desirable:
- Experience in multidisciplinary rail projects (stations, depots, infrastructure, M&E)
- Chartered membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. ICE, CIHT) or strong commercial/technical background