Overview

Applications are invited for a Business Development Manager for the water sector to join our growing team working at the cutting edge of molecular biodiversity monitoring. The role will focus on working with key clients in the water sector and related industries including utilities and water infrastructure. Experience in any of these industries and working on large water related projects is essential. Further experience working with protected species legislation, biomonitoring, policy / licensing, the mitigation hierarchy, biodiversity offsetting and net gain will be a distinct advantage.

NatureMetrics is a start-up technology company bringing high-throughput DNA sequencing technologies to the frontline of environmental management around the world.

We have grown steadily for three years and are now expanding following a recent investment raise. We are a team of bright, enthusiastic individuals who are excited to be breaking new ground and disrupting the world of biodiversity monitoring. We take great pride in our work and are seeking new team members who will do the same.

You will be part of a team of business developers working in different sectors and will report to a sector head and Business Development Director. You will also work closely with the rest of the BD team across multiple sectors. The role is based in our offices in Guildford, but this is not a prerequisite. The role may also involve occasional travel. This is a role that carries a high level of responsibility. You will be comfortable working autonomously where necessary and thrive as part of an already highly successful and dynamic team.

Familiarity with the tools we use (e.g. environmental DNA and metabarcoding) is helpful but not essential for this role since full training will be provided. Of greater importance is experience with the water sector, preferably in the field of environmental management, ecology, biodiversity science/ conservation, or a project manager role.

The full specification can be found below. There is no fixed deadline for applications, and the position will be held open until we find the right candidate.

Roles & responsibilities

General

*Establishing key partnerships and strong relationships with clients in the water industry.
*Develop business opportunities in the sector.
*Assist the Sector Head with customer account management for clients operating in the sector in different regions of the world, which includes consulting on survey design and ensuring timely delivery of projects by coordinating with the laboratory and operations teams.
*Train clients in the collection of eDNA samples. This may occasionally include joining survey teams in the field in remote locations.
*Work with our business development and products team to advise clients on sampling design
*Work with the NatureMetrics operations team to ensure supply of sampling equipment to clients and to procure relevant permits to work and export samples where necessary.
*Establish and maintain a working relationship with key partners and subcontractors.
*Work with the wider business development team within NatureMetrics to develop opportunities with the largest clients operating internationally.

Communication

*Maintain regular communications with the NatureMetrics team, complying with our policies and procedures at all times and upholding our standards and the core elements of our brand.
*Build strong relationships with partners, collaborators and clients in the sector.
*Engage closely with the wider team to stay up to date with projects.
*Work with our marketing team to assist with the production of online content and training materials

Person Specification

Education & qualifications

No specific level of education is required but at least an BSc is preferable

Specialist knowledge, skills & experience

*Experience working with clients, consulting, project management and engagement in the water sector.
*A background in ecology, biodiversity science, conservation, environmental management or similar.
*Attention to detail, excellent communication and presentation skills.

It would also be an advantage to have:

*Experience in the water sector.
*An existing network of stakeholders in the water sector.
*An understanding of environmental DNA and metabarcoding would be advantageous but not essential.
*Experience in science outreach activities and education

Interpersonal & communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills are vital
Excellent presentation skills
Ability to cultivate strong and lasting relationships
All applicants are legally required to demonstrate the right to work/permission to work in the UK.