Business Development Executive Lead

Business Development Executive – IRHA UK
Location: Surrey and London | Field-based

About IRHA UK

IRHA UK (Independent Retail & Hospitality Association UK) is a growing organisation supporting independent retailers and hospitality businesses. We bring businesses together through membership, business support, supplier connections, collective buying opportunities, training, networking and events.

We are looking for a confident, motivated Business Development Executive to grow our membership and build strong relationships with local business owners.

Your responsibilities

• Visit independent shops, restaurants, cafés, pubs and other hospitality businesses across your assigned area.
• Explain IRHA UK’s membership benefits and help business owners understand how our services can support them.
• Generate leads through business visits, telephone calls, networking and referrals.
• Convert enquiries into memberships and support new members through registration and onboarding.
• Build lasting relationships with members and follow up on their needs.
• Identify potential suppliers, commercial partners and opportunities for collaboration.
• Deliver clear presentations and demonstrations of the IRHA UK platform.
• Maintain accurate records of visits, enquiries, follow-ups and memberships using our CRM system.
• Work towards agreed membership and business development targets.
• Share feedback from business owners to help improve our services.
• Represent IRHA UK professionally at meetings, networking activities and events.

Weekly working pattern

Mondays focus on planning, arranging appointments and reviewing leads. Tuesdays to Thursdays are primarily spent visiting businesses. Fridays focus on follow-ups, outstanding targets and the weekly team catch-up.

What we are looking for

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence approaching business owners and explaining membership benefits.
• A proactive attitude, good organisation and the ability to work independently.
• Motivation to meet targets while providing a positive member experience.
• Confidence using email, tablets, online platforms and CRM systems.
• Ability to travel regularly across the assigned territory.
• Previous experience in sales, business development, customer service, retail or hospitality is desirable.

What we offer

• Training on IRHA UK’s services, platform and membership approach.
• Support from a growing team.
• Performance-related bonus opportunities.
• Opportunities for career progression as IRHA UK expands.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a brief introduction explaining why you would be suitable for this role.

Pay: £36,000.00-£49,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexitime

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Redhill RH1 6HG