Business Development Manager

Cloud 9 are exclusively Retained to partner with an independently owned corrugated sheetplant business based in the North West.

Following recent, innovative and comprehensive investment, the business is now looking to appoint an experienced Business Development Manager into a key commercial role that will play a central part in its next phase of growth.

This is a focused, challenging and rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys being close to the detail, understands corrugated manufacturing, and wants to build a long-term career within a well-run independent business.

The Opportunity
This role combines new business development with the management and growth of an existing customer base (circa £1m turnover), across a diverse mix of sectors including food, drink, retail, hygiene, household and general manufacturing.

Operating within a sheetplant environment, you’ll be trusted to represent the business commercially and technically — understanding customer needs, contributing to innovation, and working collaboratively across the organisation to deliver the right solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and grow an existing portfolio of accounts, maximising value and long-term potential
• Proactively identify, approach and win new customers across the North West & Yorkshire
• Re-engage and recover lapsed accounts where appropriate
• Measure samples and submit accurate information for quotation
• On occasion, complete your own pricing, working closely with the Finance Manager to ensure commercial alignment
• Demonstrate an understanding of innovation, product development and converting machinery
• Work collaboratively with Customer Service, Production, Design and Finance teams
• Build trusted, long-term relationships with customers across multiple sectors

You will report directly to the Managing Director and will work closely with senior stakeholders across the business.

About You
This role will suit someone who brings commercial confidence, technical understanding and consistency.

You’re likely to have:

• Proven experience in corrugated packaging, ideally within a sheetplant environment, although those with an integrated background would be considered.
• A strong track record in new business development alongside account growth
• Technical capability, including measuring samples and understanding specifications
• Commercial awareness, with the confidence to price when required
• A stable and progressive career history, demonstrating commitment and longevity

You’ll also enjoy working in a hands-on, independent business where collaboration, trust and accountability matter.

Why Join?

• Independently owned business with a strong reputation
• Recent investment and clear growth ambition
• Close-knit, supportive leadership team
• Own fleet of transport, enabling flexibility and service excellence
• A role with real responsibility, influence and visibility

Career Development
This is a demanding but highly rewarding role, and one where the right person can genuinely progress. As the business continues to grow, there is clear potential to move into a Sales Management position for someone who demonstrates capability, consistency and leadership.

Cloud 9 is acting as the Retained Partner managing this assignment, all applications must be made through Cloud 9 to be considered for this role.
If you haven’t received a response within 10 days of application assume you have not been selected for screening for this position.