Business Development Manager Visa Sponsorship Uk

Job Description

Are you a driven, sales-focused professional with a passion for unlocking business potential? Do you excel at generating leads and building strong, strategic relationships?

Our Conferences and Events team plays a key role in advancing the University’s strategic goals and global reputation through the successful delivery of high-quality events and services. With income expected to grow from £2 million to £4 million—thanks to post-pandemic recovery and significant investment in both on- and off-campus facilities, including a brand-new city centre venue opening in spring 2023—this is an exciting time to join our team.

To support this ambitious growth, we’re looking to appoint a Business Development Manager who will take the lead in developing and delivering a forward-thinking sales strategy. This role will focus on attracting national and international association conferences to the University, working closely with academic colleagues, venue-finding agencies, and event management firms. You’ll also engage with key local industry sectors to position the University as a premier event destination in the Leeds city region.

We’re seeking a highly motivated, commercially savvy business development professional with a strong track record in securing new business within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. You’ll bring in-depth knowledge of local industry networks, a proactive, results-driven approach, and a passion for working in a collaborative events environment. A confident communicator and relationship builder, you’ll thrive as part of a high-performing team and be committed to exceeding sales targets.

Please note: Due to Home Office visa regulations, this role is only suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they meet the salary concession criteria. For details, please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

What We Offer

• Generous leave: 26 days annual leave + 16 University closure days (including Christmas) – that’s 42 days per year!
• Pension & assurance: Excellent pension schemes with life assurance included.
• Health & wellbeing: Discounted access to The Edge—our state-of-the-art campus gym featuring a pool, sauna, climbing wall, and more.
• Learning & development: A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities, from languages to creative writing and wellbeing.
• Additional benefits: On-site childcare, staff discounts, travel schemes, and more.

Interested in finding out more?

Get in touch with Chelsea Rolfe-Hayes at: C.R.Rolfe@leeds.ac.uk