Head of Business Development

Head of Business Development

Based UK or Ireland

Our client is a pioneering animal nutrition specialist with a global presence, working in partnership with customers to provide cutting edge science and technology solutions. On their behalf, Narratology is recruiting for a Head of Business Development to further develop key partnerships and strategic accounts on the world stage.

The Head of Business Development is a newly created appointment, accountable for leading, developing and executing a comprehensive business development strategy that aligns with wider corporate objectives, in collaboration with global and regional teams. This role will deliver sustainable business growth through identifying, building and managing strategic alliances, optimising existing operations and ensuring a superior customer service to all customers.

The successful candidate will use their own in-depth knowledge and their highly regarded commercial team to assess new markets, industries and revenue streams, leading on the launch of new nutritional solutions or services and driving innovation through emerging trends, technologies and competitive advantages that strengthen their market position. This is a senior appointment to the organisation and the Head of Business Development will lead, mentor and inspire a high-performing Customer Experience team to deliver best-in-class service and customer satisfaction as well as collaborating internally with cross-functional teams to develop further initiatives.

Applicants will possess the following skills and experience:

• Degree in Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, Veterinary Science, or a related field.
• Significant experience in a senior commercial, key account or technical sales leadership role within the animal nutrition or feed industry.
• Familiarity with market dynamics, competitor products, regulatory environment (e.g. feed regulations, additives approvals), and emerging trends like sustainability or precision nutrition.
• Deep understanding of animal feed ingredients, formulations, species-specific nutrition (livestock, poultry, pets, ruminant), and the effects of nutrition on animal health and performance.
• Strong skills in consultative selling, lead generation, client relationship building, contract negotiation, and closing large, strategic deals.
• Ability to manage and grow large, complex accounts with a strategic approach, including account planning, customer segmentation, and long-term relationship building.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on execution ability.
• UK or Ireland-based with willingness to travel extensively across UK, Ireland and occasionally Europe / ROW (20-30% travel).

This is an incredibly exciting executive appointment in the sector and an opportunity to join an industry leader at a pivotal time. To apply, please follow the link below or for a confidential discussion please contact Ruth McDonald at Narratology.