Business Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Business Design Consultant

Company: Rentokil Initial Group (Urban Planters)

Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations & Business Development

Date Posted: September 17, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on driving revenue growth through consultative sales and the design of interior landscaping solutions, directly impacting client satisfaction and business development within a defined territory.

• It requires a blend of sales acumen, creative design thinking, and horticultural knowledge to develop and implement tailored plant displays, green walls, and floral arrangements for commercial clients.

• The position involves proactive lead generation, nurturing client relationships, and managing a portfolio to achieve and exceed sales targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

• Success in this role hinges on delivering exceptional customer service, understanding client needs, and translating them into effective, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing biophilic design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Business Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a sales-focused role with a design and horticultural component, rather than a traditional operations consulting position. The emphasis is on client acquisition, relationship management, and achieving sales targets through consultative selling of interior landscaping services. The "design" aspect is tied to creating and implementing client-specific solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Sales Target Achievement: Consistently deliver against agreed-upon sales targets and revenue goals within the assigned territory (Dorset, Devon & Cornwall).

• Lead Generation & Business Development: Proactively identify and generate new business opportunities through field-based activities, networking, and market analysis.

• Client Relationship Management: Nurture and develop strong, long-term relationships with both new and existing customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and retention.

• Consultative Sales & Design: Combine horticultural expertise with design principles to create and present bespoke interior landscape, floral, and Christmas display solutions tailored to client spaces and well-being objectives.

• Project Implementation & Oversight: Oversee the installation of designed landscapes, manage project timelines, and ensure successful execution of client solutions.

• Customer Service Excellence: Provide outstanding customer service to current clients, addressing their needs promptly and effectively to foster loyalty and repeat business.

• KPI & Target Attainment: Work diligently towards and achieve set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and sales targets, demonstrating a results-oriented approach.

• Market Trend Awareness: Stay updated on industry trends in biophilic design, interior landscaping, and sustainability to offer innovative and relevant solutions.

• Budget & Timeline Management: Manage project budgets and timelines effectively for client installations and design projects.

• Reporting & Administration: Maintain accurate client records, sales activities, and relevant administrative tasks, likely utilizing CRM systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities blend direct sales activities with a consultative and design-oriented approach. The emphasis on "nurturing relationships" and "offering excellent customer service" alongside "delivering sales" highlights a client-centric sales model. The inclusion of "designing and implementing interior landscapes" and "combining horticulture expertise with design principles" indicates a need for creative problem-solving within a sales framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Horticulture, Landscape Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field would be advantageous.

• Continuous learning and staying updated on horticultural and design trends will be crucial. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a client-facing role, preferably within sales, retail, or customer service.

• Prior experience in business development or consultative sales is highly beneficial.

• Experience in horticulture, interior design, or landscaping is a strong plus. Required Skills:

• Full UK Driving Licence: Held for more than two years, with no more than six penalty points. This is a mandatory requirement for field-based work.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales, meet targets, and generate new business opportunities.

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to provide outstanding service, build rapport, and manage client expectations.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities, essential for client interaction and presentations.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address client needs and overcome sales challenges.

• Self-Motivation & Target-Driven: Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and remain motivated to achieve goals.

• Creativity: An outgoing and naturally creative individual with an aptitude for design and aesthetic solutions.

• IT Competency: Proficient in using standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite) and comfortable learning new systems, likely including CRM.

Preferred Skills:

• Horticultural Knowledge: In-depth understanding of plants, their care, and suitability for indoor environments.

• Design Principles: Familiarity with interior design, biophilic design, or landscape design principles.

• Lead Generation Techniques: Experience in identifying and qualifying sales leads through various channels.

• CRM Software Proficiency: Experience using customer relationship management (CRM) systems for tracking leads, opportunities, and customer interactions.

• Business Development Strategies: Understanding of how to develop and execute strategies for market expansion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests a focus on foundational sales and customer service skills, with growth potential for those with a creative or horticultural inclination. The mandatory driving license emphasizes the field-based nature of the role. The "self-motivated and target-driven" requirement, coupled with "excellent problem solver" and "naturally creative individual," points to a candidate who can operate autonomously and think on their feet.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Track Record: Evidence of achieving and exceeding sales targets, quantified with specific metrics where possible (e.g., revenue growth, new client acquisition numbers).

• Client Case Studies: Examples of successful client engagements, showcasing how you understood client needs, proposed solutions (especially design-related), and achieved positive outcomes. Highlight the consultative process.

• Design Concepts: Visual examples of interior landscape designs, floral arrangements, or similar creative projects you have conceptualized or implemented. This could include mood boards, sketches, or digital renderings.

• Customer Service Examples: Demonstrations of how you have provided excellent customer service, managed challenging client situations, and built lasting relationships.

• Process Improvement Ideas: While not explicitly stated, demonstrating an understanding of how to optimize sales processes, client onboarding, or service delivery would be beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not a primary focus for this role, candidates should be prepared to discuss:

• Sales Process: Your typical approach to a sales cycle, from lead generation to closing the deal.

• Client Onboarding: How you would integrate new clients and ensure a smooth transition for service delivery.

• Service Delivery Workflow: Your understanding of how interior landscaping services are planned, installed, and maintained.

• Reporting Procedures: How you would track sales activities, manage client communications, and report on progress against KPIs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level to junior nature and the "Business Design Consultant" title, a formal, extensive portfolio might not be strictly required. However, candidates should be prepared to present examples of their sales achievements, customer service skills, and any design or horticultural projects. The emphasis will likely be on demonstrating potential and a structured approach to sales and client management, rather than a long history of documented operations processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Starting Salary: £27,053 per annum.

• Potential through Grading: Up to £36,000 per annum.

• Expected On-Target Earnings (OTE): £40,000 per annum, inclusive of a commission scheme.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure is tiered, with a base salary that can increase based on performance and career progression through a grading system. The OTE of £40,000 indicates a significant portion of potential earnings comes from commission, underscoring the sales-driven nature of the role. This estimate is based on the provided figures, and actual compensation may vary based on individual performance and specific grading criteria. For a Business Design Consultant in Plymouth, UK, with 0-2 years of experience, a starting base salary of ~£27k and an OTE of ~£40k is competitive within the sales and field service sectors, considering the commission structure and benefits offered. Research from UK job boards for similar sales or field consultant roles in the South West England region generally aligns with this range.

Benefits:

• Company Vehicle: Provided for business use.

• Fuel Card: To cover fuel expenses for the company vehicle.

• Commission Scheme: Opportunity to earn additional income based on sales performance.

• Mobile Phone: Provided for business communication.

• Tablet: Likely for sales, design, and client management tools.

• Uniform: Provided.

• Discount Scheme: Access to a discount scheme with over 3,000 retailers (RI Rewards).

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free, 24/7 confidential support service for employees and their families.

• Long Service Recognition: Extra annual leave entitlement after five years of service.

• Refer a Friend Scheme: Earn rewards for successful referrals.

Working Hours:

• Standard Hours: Full-time, permanent role, Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week.

• Flexibility: While the hours are defined, managing one's own schedule within the working week is implied, particularly for field-based activities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Business Services (specifically Interior Landscaping, Biophilic Design, and Grounds Maintenance). The parent company, Rentokil Initial, is a global leader in pest control, hygiene, and plant services.

Company Size: Rentokil Initial is a large, FTSE 50 listed multinational corporation, operating in over 90 countries. Urban Planters, as a division, likely operates with a degree of autonomy within its regional focus while leveraging the resources of the larger group.

Founded: Urban Planters began trading in 1965. Rentokil Initial has a longer history, founded in 1925. This indicates a company with established processes, significant experience, and a stable market presence.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The role is part of the Urban Planters division, covering the Dorset, Devon & Cornwall region. The team likely consists of sales consultants, designers, horticultural technicians, and potentially administrative support.

• Reporting Structure: The Business Design Consultant will likely report to a Regional Sales Manager or a similar leadership role within the Urban Planters division.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires collaboration with installation teams, horticultural maintenance staff, and potentially internal design specialists or project managers to ensure seamless client delivery and satisfaction.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Approach: While the role is creative, there's an emphasis on "delivering sales versus an agreed target" and "working towards and achieving set KPIs," suggesting a data-informed approach to sales performance management.

• Consultative Sales & Design: The company positions itself as a "Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consultant," indicating a methodology focused on understanding client needs related to well-being, productivity, sustainability, and nature integration.

• Customer-Centric Service: The emphasis on "excellent customer service" and "nurturing relationships" points to a service delivery model that prioritizes client satisfaction and long-term partnerships.

Company Website: https://www.urbanplanters.co.uk/ (and Rentokil Initial: https://www.rentokil-initial.com/)

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration into the Rentokil Initial family provides a strong foundation of corporate stability, resources, and established best practices. Urban Planters itself has a long history, suggesting a mature business with a solid understanding of its market. The "Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consultant" positioning signifies a move towards more value-added, consultative services beyond basic plant provision.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior consultant level, focusing on client acquisition and consultative sales within a specific geographic territory. It requires foundational sales skills, creativity, and a willingness to learn about horticulture and design.

Reporting Structure: The Business Design Consultant will report to a direct sales manager, likely within the regional structure of Urban Planters. This provides a clear line of management and support for performance and development.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is on revenue generation and client acquisition for Urban Planters. By successfully designing and implementing interior landscapes, the consultant contributes to improving client environments, enhancing occupant well-being, and supporting sustainability goals, which in turn drives business growth and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Career Progression within Sales: Advancement from Business Design Consultant to Senior Consultant, Key Account Manager, or Sales Team Lead, managing larger territories or teams.

• Specialization in Design/Horticulture: Opportunities to deepen expertise in biophilic design, specific plant species, or advanced landscaping techniques, potentially leading to specialized design roles.

• Management Track: With proven success and leadership potential, progression into management roles overseeing regional sales operations or business development.

• Cross-Divisional Opportunities: Leveraging the Rentokil Initial network for potential roles in other service divisions (e.g., Pest Control, Hygiene, Ambius) if skills and interests align.

• Salary Grading System: The performance-linked grading system offers a tangible path for salary increases and career advancement within the current role or division.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "salary grading system" is a key indicator of structured career progression within the role. The company's scale (part of Rentokil Initial) suggests ample opportunities for development, both within the Urban Planters division and across the broader group. The role provides a solid foundation in consultative sales and client management, transferable to various GTM functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is primarily a field-based role requiring significant time spent on-site with clients. While there may be a regional office for administrative tasks or team meetings, the day-to-day work is performed at customer locations (offices, hotels, shopping centers, etc.).

Office Location(s): The role covers the Dorset, Devon & Cornwall region in the South West of England. The consultant will be expected to travel extensively within this area.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile Workspace: The consultant will operate from a company vehicle, equipped with a mobile phone and tablet, serving as their primary "office" while on the road.

• Client Sites: Work will be conducted in diverse commercial environments, requiring adaptability and professionalism.

• Collaborative Environment: Opportunities for collaboration will likely occur during team meetings, training sessions, or when working on larger projects requiring input from horticultural technicians or designers.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week.

• The role offers flexibility in managing daily schedules to accommodate client appointments, site visits, and lead generation activities within the defined working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The field-based nature is paramount. Candidates should be comfortable with significant travel, self-management, and working independently for extended periods. The "managing your own schedule" aspect implies a need for strong time management and organizational skills.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, motivation, and cultural fit.

• First Interview: A more in-depth discussion focusing on sales experience, customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's requirements. This may include behavioral questions.

• Field Visit/Assessment: Potentially a practical assessment or a simulated client interaction/design presentation to evaluate creativity, communication, and sales approach.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior management or a panel to assess strategic thinking, career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, numbers speak volumes. Highlight revenue generated, percentage growth achieved, number of new clients acquired, or conversion rates.

• Showcase Consultative Approach: For each case study, explain how you identified client needs, how your solution addressed them, and the tangible benefits delivered (e.g., increased client satisfaction, improved environment, sustainability impact).

• Visuals are Key: For design elements, use high-quality images or renderings of your work. If you lack professional design experience, showcase creative projects from personal interests or previous roles that demonstrate your aesthetic sense.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize how your past experiences, even if not directly in interior landscaping, demonstrate transferable skills like client management, problem-solving, and sales drive.

• Prepare to Discuss Processes: Be ready to articulate your approach to lead generation, client needs assessment, proposal development, and closing deals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario: You may be asked to role-play a sales interaction, handle objections, or present a solution for a hypothetical client.

• Design Pitch: Prepare a brief (5-10 minute) pitch for a fictional client (e.g., a local hotel or office) outlining how you would enhance their space with interior landscaping, focusing on benefits and creativity.

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would handle a challenging client situation or overcome a specific sales obstacle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both sales capability and creative potential. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate a structured sales methodology, strong interpersonal skills, and a creative flair for design. The portfolio, while perhaps not formal, should be a collection of evidence of past successes and potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for managing leads, tracking sales activities, customer data, and pipeline management. Expect to use a system like Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, or a proprietary Rentokil Initial CRM.

• Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: For general productivity, email communication, document creation, and presentations.

• Mobile Phone & Tablet: Provided devices will likely have pre-installed applications for CRM, communication, and potentially design visualization or proposal generation tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CRM Reporting: Generating reports on sales performance, pipeline status, and customer activity.

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel/Google Sheets): For ad-hoc data analysis, tracking personal performance against KPIs, and simple financial projections.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: As mentioned, a robust CRM is central to managing client interactions and sales processes.

• Potential for Proposal/Quoting Software: The company may use specific software for generating sales proposals and quotes.

• Integration: Understanding how CRM integrates with other business systems (e.g., accounting, service management) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CRM systems is critical for this role, as it underpins sales activity tracking and client management. While specific software names aren't provided, a willingness and ability to quickly learn and utilize new technology platforms are essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• "Right People, Doing the Right Things, and in the Right Way": This core Rentokil Initial value emphasizes integrity, ethical conduct, and a commitment to quality in all actions.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting customer needs, providing excellent service, and building lasting relationships.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging new ideas and creative solutions, particularly in design and service delivery, as highlighted by the "Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consultant" approach.

• Performance & Results: A drive towards achieving targets and KPIs, with a performance-linked grading system reinforcing this value.

• Sustainability & Wellbeing: A growing focus on how their services contribute to healthier, more sustainable environments for clients and their occupants.

Collaboration Style:

• Field-Oriented: While team collaboration is valued, the role is predominantly independent in the field. Collaboration will be crucial for sharing best practices, seeking advice, and coordinating service delivery.

• Cross-functional Interaction: Working effectively with horticultural technicians, designers, and administrative staff to ensure seamless customer experiences.

• Open Communication: Encouraged within the Rentokil Initial framework, likely through regular team meetings and performance reviews.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to share insights from client interactions and market trends with the broader team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of corporate structure and values from Rentokil Initial, combined with the more specialized, customer-facing approach of Urban Planters. Candidates should demonstrate a proactive, customer-centric, and results-oriented mindset, with an appreciation for design and sustainability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Territory Management: Effectively covering a large geographic area (Dorset, Devon & Cornwall) and balancing client visits, lead generation, and administrative tasks.

• Competition: Navigating a competitive market for interior landscaping and grounds maintenance services.

• Client Education: Educating potential clients on the benefits of biophilic design and interior landscaping, especially for those unfamiliar with the concept.

• Seasonal Demands: Managing fluctuations in demand, particularly around holidays (e.g., Christmas displays) or specific maintenance needs.

• Performance Pressure: Consistently meeting sales targets and KPIs in a commission-driven environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Horticultural & Design Training: Access to industry-leading training to enhance expertise in plant care, biophilic design, and landscaping techniques.

• Sales Skills Development: Training and coaching on consultative selling, negotiation, and client relationship management.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of the range of services offered, from plant displays to green walls and grounds maintenance.

• Career Advancement Programs: Potential participation in Rentokil Initial's broader leadership development and talent management programs.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales professionals and managers within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a field sales role, emphasizing the need for strong organizational skills, resilience, and a proactive approach. The growth opportunities are significant, especially given the structured salary grading and the backing of a large corporation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Approach: "Describe your process for identifying and approaching a new potential client in a territory you're unfamiliar with." "How do you handle objections from a client who is hesitant about the cost or necessity of interior landscaping?" "Walk me through a time you successfully closed a difficult sale."

• Consultative & Design Thinking: "Imagine you're meeting a new office manager. What questions would you ask to understand their needs for interior landscaping?" "How would you balance aesthetic design with the practical needs of plant maintenance in a client's space?" "What are the key benefits of biophilic design for a commercial environment?"

• Problem-Solving & Resilience: "Tell me about a time a client was unhappy with a service you provided. How did you resolve it?" "How do you stay motivated when you're facing a sales slump or a challenging territory?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Rentokil Initial and Urban Planters?" "Why are you interested in this specific role and our company?" "How do you align with our values of 'Right People, Doing the Right Things, and in the Right Way'?" "What does excellent customer service mean to you in a sales context?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For any sales achievements, quantify the results (e.g., "Increased revenue by 15% in my territory," "Acquired 20 new B2B clients in six months").

• Visual Aids: If you have design or project examples, be ready to present them clearly, explaining your thought process and the outcomes. Use photos or simple mock-ups if professional renderings aren't available.

• Tell a Story: For case studies, structure your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on your role and the positive impact you made.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show your passion for design, plants, and helping clients improve their spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on blending sales skills with a creative and consultative mindset. Candidates need to demonstrate their ability to manage a territory, build relationships, and articulate value propositions, while also showing an aptitude for design and customer satisfaction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Business Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workable platform.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight any experience in sales, customer service, retail, or client-facing roles. Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., sales figures, customer satisfaction scores).

• Prepare a brief "portfolio" or summary: Even without a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss 2-3 key examples of your sales successes, customer service wins, or any creative/design projects you've undertaken.

• Research the company: Familiarize yourself with Urban Planters' services and the broader Rentokil Initial group's mission and values. Understand the concept of biophilic design.

• Practice your pitch: Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for this role, demonstrating your enthusiasm for sales, design, and customer service.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.