Business Design Consultant at Rentokil Initial Group

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Business Design Consultant

Company: Rentokil Initial Group (Urban Planters)

Location: Truro, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Revenue Operations / Sales Operations / Business Development

Date Posted: 2026-09-17

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years suggested)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Drive revenue growth by managing and developing a portfolio of clients for interior landscaping and biophilic design solutions.
Combine horticultural expertise with creative design principles to conceptualize and implement visually appealing and functional indoor environments.
Generate new business opportunities through proactive lead generation and relationship management in a field-based capacity.
Deliver exceptional customer service and foster strong partnerships with new and existing clients to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
Achieve and exceed sales targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through strategic planning and execution of sales initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Business Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and requirements heavily lean towards a field sales and business development role with a design component. The emphasis on sales targets, lead generation, client portfolio management, and customer service indicates a strong revenue-generating objective, aligning it with GTM and Sales Operations functions. The "design consultant" aspect refers to the specialization in interior landscaping and biophilic design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Sales Target Achievement: Consistently meet and exceed agreed-upon sales targets for interior landscaping, grounds maintenance, and design services.
Client Portfolio Management: Nurture and grow relationships with a dedicated portfolio of new and existing customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and retention.
Lead Generation & Business Development: Proactively identify and generate new leads through field visits, networking, and strategic outreach within the designated territory (Dorset, Devon & Cornwall).
Design & Implementation: Create, design, and implement interior landscapes, floral displays, and Christmas designs that align with client needs, biophilic principles, and current market trends.
Customer Service Excellence: Provide outstanding customer service to all clients, addressing inquiries, resolving issues promptly, and ensuring a positive experience with Urban Planters.
KPI Performance: Work towards and achieve set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to sales volume, customer acquisition, client retention, and project delivery.
Horticultural & Design Integration: Effectively combine horticultural expertise with design principles to enhance the well-being, productivity, and sustainability of occupants in various indoor environments.
Site Assessments & Consultations: Conduct site assessments and client consultations to understand specific needs, recommend appropriate solutions, and present design proposals.
Project Oversight: Oversee the installation and maintenance of designed landscapes, ensuring quality standards and client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.
Market Trend Awareness: Stay updated on industry trends in interior landscaping, biophilic design, sustainability, and biodiversity consulting to offer innovative solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are structured to reflect a typical field-based sales role with a consultative sales approach. The inclusion of "design and implementation" alongside "sales target achievement" and "lead generation" highlights the dual nature of the role, requiring both commercial acumen and creative flair.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

While no specific degree is mandated, a background in Horticulture, Landscape Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field is beneficial. Experience:
0-2 years of experience in a client-facing sales or business development role.
Proven experience in retail sales or field sales is highly desirable due to the direct customer interaction required.
Experience in the horticulture, landscaping, or interior design industry is a strong advantage. Required Skills:
Full UK Driving Licence: Held for more than two years with no more than six penalty points. This is essential for field-based work.
Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to drive sales, meet targets, and generate revenue.
Customer Service: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build rapport and provide exceptional service to clients.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to address client needs and overcome challenges effectively.
Creativity & Design Sense: An outgoing, naturally creative individual with an eye for design and an understanding of aesthetic principles, particularly in relation to interior spaces.
IT Competency: Proficient in using standard IT applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite) for reporting, communication, and potentially CRM use.
Self-Motivation & Target-Driven: Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain a high level of motivation to achieve goals.

Preferred Skills:

Horticultural Knowledge: Familiarity with plant types, care requirements, and their application in indoor environments.
Biophilic Design Principles: Understanding of how to integrate nature into built environments to enhance human well-being and productivity.
Client Relationship Management (CRM): Experience using CRM systems to manage client interactions, sales pipelines, and track progress.
Design Software: Familiarity with design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) for creating visual proposals.
Business Development Strategies: Knowledge of lead generation techniques and strategies for expanding client bases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a full UK driving licence and experience in retail/sales directly informs the required skills. The "Business Design Consultant" title suggests a need for creative and problem-solving skills beyond standard sales, hence the inclusion of design sense and biophilic design principles as preferred, but highly relevant, qualifications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Sales Case Studies: Documented examples of successful sales cycles, including challenges faced, strategies employed, and revenue outcomes achieved. Highlight how you identified client needs and presented solutions.
Design Concepts: Visual representations of interior landscape or floral designs, showcasing creativity, understanding of client briefs, and practical application of horticultural knowledge. This could include mood boards, sketches, or rendered proposals.
Client Relationship Management: Evidence of how you managed client portfolios, maintained communication, and fostered long-term relationships, demonstrating a proactive and service-oriented approach.
Performance Metrics: Quantifiable achievements related to sales targets, lead generation, client acquisition, or customer satisfaction scores. Focus on demonstrating impact and ROI.

Process Documentation:

Sales Process Outline: A clear articulation of your approach to the sales cycle, from lead generation and qualification to proposal development, negotiation, and closing.
Client Engagement Framework: Describe your methodology for understanding client needs, conducting site assessments, and developing tailored design and maintenance plans.
Project Implementation Workflow: Outline the steps involved in overseeing the installation and ongoing maintenance of interior landscapes, including coordination with internal teams or external suppliers.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role combining sales and design, a portfolio should showcase both commercial success and creative capability. The emphasis is on demonstrating a structured approach to sales processes and client engagement, coupled with tangible evidence of design execution and its positive impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Starting Salary: £27,053 per annum.
Potential through Grading: Up to £36,000 per annum, linked to performance.
Expected OTE (On-Target Earnings): £40,000 per annum, including commission scheme.

Benefits:

Company Vehicle: Provided for business use, facilitating field-based activities.
Fuel Card: Covers fuel expenses for the company vehicle.
Commission Scheme: Opportunity to earn additional income based on sales performance and achieving targets.
Mobile Phone & Tablet: Essential tools for communication, client management, and on-the-go access to company systems.
Uniform: Provided for a professional appearance.
Discount Scheme: Access to various discounts and cashback offers through RI Rewards (over 3,000 retailers).
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free, confidential support available 24/7 for personal and professional well-being.
Long Service Recognition: Additional five days of annual leave after five years of service.
Refer a Friend Scheme: Opportunity to earn up to £1,000 for successful referrals.

Working Hours:

Standard Hours: 37.5 hours per week.
Schedule: Monday to Friday.
Flexibility: While a standard schedule is outlined, field-based roles often require some flexibility to accommodate client appointments and site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure includes a base, performance-based grading, and commission, typical for sales roles. The OTE of £40k is a key figure for candidates to consider. Benefits are comprehensive, with specific mention of tools for field operations and employee well-being programs. The working hours are standard full-time, but the nature of field sales implies some inherent flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Business Services (specifically Interior Landscaping, Grounds Maintenance, Biophilic Design, and related services).

Company Size: Part of Rentokil Initial, a large, global organization (FTSE50). Urban Planters operates as a specialized division with a network of branches.

Founded: Urban Planters began trading in 1965, with Rentokil Initial having a much longer history. This indicates a stable, experienced organization with established operational frameworks.

Team Structure:

Operations Team: The Business Design Consultant will be part of a field-based team covering Dorset, Devon & Cornwall. This team likely includes other sales consultants, field technicians, and potentially a regional manager.
Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Sales Manager or Regional Manager within the Urban Planters division.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborates with installation teams, maintenance technicians, design specialists (if separate), and potentially customer service or administrative support within the Rentokil Initial framework.

Methodology:

Data-Driven Approach: Emphasizes understanding customer needs and market trends to provide tailored solutions, likely supported by CRM data and sales performance analytics.
Biophilic Design Focus: Integrates principles of biophilia (connecting humans with nature) into design and service offerings to improve well-being and productivity.
Customer-Centric Service: Prioritizes personalized service, building strong relationships, and delivering high-quality outcomes for clients.
Efficiency & Sustainability: Aims to enhance workplace environments while promoting sustainability and biodiversity.

Company Website: [Refer to the provided URL for Rentokil Initial Group jobs and potentially Urban Planters' specific website if available.]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's heritage and global scale (Rentokil Initial) provide a strong foundation. Urban Planters' specialization and focus on biophilic design offer a unique niche. The culture is likely a blend of corporate structure and a hands-on, service-oriented approach typical of field operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level position, focusing on building foundational sales and client management skills within a specialized industry. It's a key contributor role focused on direct revenue generation and client satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The consultant will report to a Sales Manager or Regional Manager, providing regular updates on sales performance, client interactions, and lead generation activities. This structure allows for guidance and support in developing sales strategies.

Operations Impact: The Business Design Consultant directly impacts the company's revenue through sales achievements and client retention. Their success in designing and implementing effective interior landscapes contributes to client well-being, productivity, and brand image, indirectly supporting the company's reputation and growth.

Growth Opportunities:

Sales Progression: Advancement to Senior Business Design Consultant, Key Account Manager, or Sales Team Lead roles, managing larger territories or client portfolios.
Management Track: Potential to move into a Regional Sales Manager or Operations Management position, overseeing teams and strategic planning for a geographical area.
Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like Biophilic Design Consulting, Commercial Horticulture, or Project Management for larger landscaping projects.
Cross-Divisional Opportunities: Leverage the Rentokil Initial network for potential roles in other service divisions or corporate functions if skills and interests align.
Performance-Based Grading: The described salary grading system explicitly rewards performance and career development within the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression, particularly within sales. The emphasis on performance-based grading suggests that high achievers can accelerate their career trajectory and earning potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a field-based role requiring significant time spent at client locations (offices, hotels, shopping centers, etc.). A company vehicle is provided, suggesting a mobile work setup. There will be a home base for administrative tasks and communication.

Office Location(s): The role covers the Truro area, specifically serving Dorset, Devon & Cornwall. This implies regular travel within this region.

Workspace Context:

Mobile Office: The company vehicle serves as a primary workspace for travel, client meetings, and potentially on-site design consultations.
Client Sites: Work will be conducted in diverse indoor environments, requiring adaptability and professionalism in client premises.
Support Systems: Access to company IT systems, a mobile phone, and a tablet will support daily operations, CRM management, and communication.
Team Interaction: While largely autonomous, there will be opportunities for team interaction during regional meetings, training sessions, or collaborative client engagements.

Work Schedule: The standard 37.5-hour week (Monday-Friday) provides structure, but the field-based nature necessitates flexibility to meet client availability and project demands. Occasional weekend work or extended hours might be required during peak seasons (e.g., Christmas displays) or for urgent client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by autonomy and mobility. Candidates should be comfortable working independently, managing their own schedule, and representing the company professionally at various client sites.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, motivation, and cultural fit.
First Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (e.g., Sales Manager) focusing on sales experience, problem-solving abilities, understanding of the role, and creative aptitude. Expect behavioral questions.
Field/Design Assessment: This may involve a practical exercise, such as a mock client consultation, a short design task, or a presentation of portfolio pieces. This assesses practical skills and approach.
Final Interview: Potentially with a senior manager or a panel, focusing on strategic thinking, long-term career aspirations, and final cultural alignment.
DBS Check: As mentioned in the requirements, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required depending on the specific client sites visited.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Quantify Achievements: For sales examples, focus on metrics: "Increased sales in my territory by X%," "Acquired Y new clients worth £Z in annual revenue."
Showcase Design Process: For design elements, present a clear narrative: "Client brief -> Initial concepts -> Refinement based on feedback -> Final design -> Implementation outcome." Use high-quality visuals.
Tailor to Biophilic Design: Emphasize how your designs incorporate elements that enhance well-being, productivity, and sustainability, aligning with Urban Planters' consulting expertise.
Highlight Customer Service: Include examples of how you managed difficult client situations or went above and beyond to ensure client satisfaction.
Conciseness is Key: Present your strongest pieces clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss each item in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

Sales Scenarios: Be ready to role-play a sales pitch or handle common objections.
Design Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a design challenge for a hypothetical space (e.g., a busy office lobby, a hotel reception).
Company Research: Understand Rentokil Initial's broader mission and Urban Planters' specific services, market position, and competitors.
Biophilic Design Research: Familiarize yourself with the core principles and benefits of biophilic design in commercial settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process likely balances sales assessment with a review of design capabilities. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate both their commercial drive and their creative problem-solving skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Company Vehicle: Essential for field operations, acting as a mobile office.
Mobile Phone & Tablet: Provided for communication, CRM access, scheduling, and potentially design visualization tools.
CRM System: Likely a Rentokil Initial or Urban Planters-specific CRM (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) for managing leads, accounts, sales pipelines, and client interactions.
Microsoft Office Suite: For general productivity, reporting, presentations (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

Sales Performance Dashboards: Access to internal dashboards to track personal sales performance against targets and KPIs.
Reporting Tools: Ability to generate reports on sales activities, client interactions, and market insights using CRM or dedicated reporting software.

CRM & Automation:

CRM Software: As mentioned, a robust CRM is crucial for managing the sales cycle and client relationships effectively.
Potential Scheduling/Mapping Tools: May be used to optimize travel routes and schedule client visits efficiently within the designated territory.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is geared towards a mobile, field-based sales role. Proficiency in CRM systems and standard office productivity tools is essential. The company provides the necessary hardware to facilitate these operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

People First: Rentokil Initial emphasizes investing in colleagues' training and development, fostering a supportive environment.
Right People, Right Things, Right Way: This core principle guides hiring, decision-making, and execution, focusing on competence, ethics, and efficiency.
Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on delivering excellent service and building lasting client relationships is paramount.
Innovation & Sustainability: Encouraging new ways to incorporate greenery and promote biodiversity, aligning with Biophilic Design principles.
Performance Driven: A culture that rewards achievement through sales targets, KPIs, and performance-based grading.

Collaboration Style:

Autonomous Field Work: Consultants are expected to be self-motivated and manage their own schedules and client interactions.
Team Support: While independent, there's an expectation of collaboration with other team members and managers for shared learning, problem-solving, and achieving regional goals.
Cross-Functional Integration: Working effectively with installation and maintenance teams to ensure seamless project delivery and client satisfaction.
Feedback Culture: Openness to feedback from clients and colleagues to continuously improve service and design offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture blends corporate values with the practicalities of a service-based, field-oriented business. The "People First" and "Right People" principles suggest a focus on employee development and ethical conduct, while the sales aspect drives a performance-oriented mindset.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Territory Management: Effectively covering a large geographical area (Dorset, Devon & Cornwall) and balancing client visits, lead generation, and administrative tasks.
Sales Target Pressure: Consistently meeting ambitious sales targets in a competitive market.
Client Acquisition: Identifying and converting new clients in diverse sectors.
Design Complexity: Translating client needs and site constraints into aesthetically pleasing and horticulturally viable designs.
Seasonal Fluctuations: Potential demand shifts, particularly around specific offerings like Christmas displays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Sales Training: Access to industry-leading training provided by Rentokil Initial to enhance sales techniques, negotiation skills, and client management.
Horticultural & Design Workshops: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in plant care, interior landscaping, and biophilic design principles.
Biophilic Design Consulting: Developing expertise in this growing field, positioning the individual as a specialist consultant.
Performance Management & Coaching: Regular feedback and coaching from managers to identify areas for improvement and career development.
Mentorship Programs: Potential access to mentorship from experienced sales professionals or design consultants within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to grow within a specialized and increasingly relevant field (biophilic design) while building core sales and client management competencies within a large, reputable organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"How would you approach a new client in a hotel lobby who wants to improve their reception area's ambiance using plants?" (Assesses design thinking, client needs analysis, and sales approach)
"Describe a time you had to overcome a significant objection from a potential client. What was your strategy and outcome?" (Evaluates problem-solving and sales negotiation skills)
"How do you stay motivated and manage your time effectively when working independently in a field-based role?" (Assesses self-management and work ethic)
"What are the key benefits of biophilic design in a commercial office environment?" (Tests understanding of the company's consulting niche) Company & Culture Questions:
"Why are you interested in working for Urban Planters/Rentokil Initial specifically?" (Assesses research and genuine interest)
"How do you align with the company's values of 'Right People, Right Things, Right Way'?" (Tests cultural fit and ethical understanding)
"Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to it." (Evaluates collaboration style) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly state the client's challenge, your proposed solution (design/sales strategy), the implementation, and the quantifiable results (sales increase, client satisfaction, aesthetic improvement).
Highlight Biophilic Elements: For design examples, explicitly point out the plants used and how they contribute to well-being, air quality, or aesthetics.
Emphasize ROI: For sales examples, focus on the financial impact of your efforts. For design, discuss how improved aesthetics or well-being can indirectly benefit the client (e.g., employee productivity, customer perception).
Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, sales tactics, and how you handle challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales effectiveness, creative design thinking, and a strong understanding of the biophilic design niche. The ability to articulate value and impact quantitatively is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant sales experience, customer service achievements, and any design or horticultural background. Use keywords from the job description such as "sales," "client management," "design," "horticulture," and "lead generation."
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong examples of past sales successes and/or design projects. Ensure visuals are high-quality and narratives are concise. Be ready to discuss them in detail.
Research Rentokil Initial & Urban Planters: Understand their market position, services, and company culture. Familiarize yourself with biophilic design principles.
Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common sales and behavioral interview questions, as well as questions specific to this role's unique blend of sales and design.

⚠️ 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.

Business Design Consultant