Business Development (Design) Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Business Development (Design) Consultant

Company: Rentokil Initial Group (Urban Planters)

Location: Hertford, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Business Development / Sales Operations / Design Consulting

Date Posted: 11 November 2025

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead business development initiatives within the interior landscaping and biophilic design sector, focusing on generating new client partnerships and expanding existing accounts.

• Leverage design expertise to create compelling interior landscape, floral, and Christmas design proposals, aligning with client aesthetic and functional requirements.

• Manage a dedicated portfolio of clients, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships through proactive engagement and exceptional service delivery.

• Drive revenue growth by achieving and exceeding agreed sales targets through effective lead generation, client nurturing, and strategic sales approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role blends traditional business development with a strong design and horticultural element, requiring a consultant who can translate aesthetic vision into profitable sales opportunities. The focus on "Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consulting" suggests a growing emphasis on sustainability and employee well-being as key selling points.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Achieve and surpass assigned sales targets by identifying, pursuing, and closing new business opportunities within the designated London, Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire territory.

• Develop and present innovative interior landscape, floral, and Christmas design concepts, tailored to client needs and environmental enhancement objectives.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with a portfolio of existing clients, ensuring their ongoing satisfaction and identifying opportunities for upselling or cross-selling services.

• Proactively generate new business leads through field-based activities, networking, and market analysis, effectively communicating the value proposition of Urban Planters' services.

• Manage project lifecycles from initial client consultation and design conceptualization through to installation oversight and ongoing maintenance plan development, ensuring seamless execution and client delight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on new business acquisition and account management, requiring strong sales acumen alongside design sensibility. The mention of "Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consultants" indicates a strategic shift towards solution selling that addresses modern corporate priorities like sustainability and employee well-being.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background or demonstrated understanding in horticulture, interior design, landscape architecture, or a related field would be highly advantageous.

Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in a client-facing role, with a strong emphasis on sales, business development, or design consulting. Experience within the landscaping, interior design, or B2B service industries is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to meet and exceed sales targets, including lead generation, prospecting, and closing deals.

• Communication Excellence: Articulate and persuasive communication skills, both written and verbal, for client presentations and relationship management.

• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with internal teams (e.g., installation, maintenance) and external clients to achieve project goals.

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

• Project Management Fundamentals: Capability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and client engagements simultaneously.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to design, proposals, and client interactions to ensure accuracy and quality.

• Customer Service Orientation: Commitment to delivering outstanding service and building lasting client relationships.

• Creativity & Design Sensibility: Innate creativity and an eye for design, particularly in relation to plant aesthetics and interior spaces.

• IT Proficiency: Competence in using standard IT tools for communication, proposal generation, and potentially design software.

Preferred Skills:

• Horticultural Knowledge: In-depth understanding of plant types, their care requirements, and suitability for various indoor environments.

• Design Principles: Familiarity with interior design principles, space planning, and aesthetic composition.

• Sustainable Practices: Knowledge of eco-friendly landscaping and biophilic design concepts.

• CRM Software: Experience with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for lead tracking and client management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Business Development (Design) Consultant" title and responsibilities suggest a need for a candidate who can bridge the gap between sales strategy and creative execution. While a formal design education isn't mandated, a strong portfolio or portfolio-equivalent experience demonstrating design capability will be crucial. The emphasis on "Biophilic Design" implies a need for understanding its principles and benefits.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Track Record: Demonstrable success in achieving sales targets, ideally presented with quantifiable results (e.g., revenue growth, client acquisition numbers).

• Design Concepts: Examples of created designs for interior landscapes, floral arrangements, or Christmas displays, showcasing creativity, problem-solving, and client-specific tailoring.

• Client Engagement: Evidence of successful client management, including case studies on nurturing relationships, resolving issues, and delivering exceptional service.

• Project Lifecycle Management: Documentation of how projects were managed from initial inquiry to completion, highlighting planning, execution, and client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Sales Process Outline: Ability to articulate a structured approach to identifying leads, qualifying opportunities, developing proposals, and closing deals within the interior landscaping sector.

• Design Development Workflow: A clear process for translating client briefs into design concepts, including client consultation, mood boards, plant selection, and final proposal presentation.

• Client Relationship Management Strategy: A systematic approach to maintaining and growing client relationships post-sale, including communication plans and retention strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past successes and methodologies through concrete examples. The emphasis on "design" and "development" implies a need to showcase how they've translated creative ideas into tangible client solutions and business outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The role offers a starting salary of £28,000 per annum, with a performance-linked grading system allowing potential to achieve £35,000 per annum.

Benefits:

• Company vehicle and fuel card for travel to client sites.

• Commission and bonus schemes for performance-based incentives.

• Mobile phone and tablet for business use.

• Uniform provided.

• Discount scheme for a wide range of retailers.

• RI Rewards program offering discounts and cashback from over 3,000 retailers.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing confidential support 24/7.

• Long service recognition, including additional annual leave after five years.

• Refer a Friend scheme with potential earnings up to £1,000.

Working Hours: Full-time, permanent position working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure includes a base salary with a clear performance-based progression path, incentivizing high achievement. The benefits package is comprehensive, supporting the mobile nature of the role and offering substantial employee perks. The £35,000 figure represents a realistic upper-end earning potential based on performance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Business Services, specifically Interior Landscaping, Biophilic Design, and Grounds Maintenance. Urban Planters is a leading national provider with a local service network, part of the larger Rentokil Initial group.

Company Size: Rentokil Initial is a FTSE50 company operating in over 90 countries, indicating a large, global organization. Urban Planters, as a division, likely benefits from this scale while maintaining a focused operational structure within its specific service areas.

Founded: Urban Planters began trading in 1965, bringing decades of experience in the industry. Rentokil Initial has a long history, founded in 1925. This longevity suggests stability, established processes, and a deep understanding of their markets.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Urban Planters division, likely reporting to a Sales Manager or Regional Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with installation and maintenance teams, as well as potentially with design specialists and administrative staff.

Methodology:

• Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consulting: A core methodology focusing on integrating nature into built environments to improve well-being, productivity, sustainability, and biodiversity.

• Data-Driven Client Solutions: While not explicitly stated for this role, Rentokil Initial's scale suggests a reliance on data for operational efficiency and client service improvement.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on understanding and meeting customer needs through personalized service and high-quality delivery.

Company Website: https://www.urbanplanters.co.uk/, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a blend of long-standing expertise (Urban Planters since 1965) and global corporate strength (Rentokil Initial). The "People First" ethos, combined with a focus on modern sustainability trends like biophilic design, indicates a forward-thinking yet grounded organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level consultant role, requiring a blend of sales, design, and client management skills. It's a client-facing position with significant autonomy in managing a territory and client portfolio.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a Sales Manager or Business Development Manager within the Urban Planters division. This manager would oversee performance, provide guidance, and support career development.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue generation through sales and client retention. It also influences client perception of the company's brand and commitment to well-being and sustainability through the quality of designs and service delivered.

Growth Opportunities:

• Career Advancement: Progression to Senior Business Development Consultant, Key Account Manager, or Sales Management roles. The "salary grading system" directly links performance to career progression.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in horticulture, biophilic design, and advanced sales techniques. The company offers "Industry-Leading Training."

• Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in specific areas like green walls, sustainable landscaping, or corporate well-being initiatives.

• Leadership Potential: Demonstrating strong performance and leadership qualities could open doors to team leadership or management positions within Urban Planters or the wider Rentokil Initial group.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of a "salary grading system" linked to performance is a strong indicator of a structured career progression path. This role serves as a solid foundation for individuals looking to build a career in B2B sales and client management within a specialized, growth-oriented industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a field-based role requiring significant time spent on client sites across London, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire. While a home office setup is implied for administrative tasks, the core work is external.

Office Location(s): The primary operational focus is within the specified geographical region, with potential for occasional visits to a central Urban Planters or Rentokil Initial office for training or team meetings.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile Workspace: The role requires a company vehicle, fuel card, mobile phone, and tablet, enabling effective work management from various locations.

• Client Environments: Work will be conducted in diverse indoor settings such as offices, hotels, shopping centers, and other commercial spaces.

• Collaborative Opportunities: While largely independent, the role allows for collaboration with installation teams, horticultural experts, and potentially other sales professionals within the Urban Planters network.

Work Schedule: A standard 37.5-hour week, Monday to Friday, offers a structured work schedule. However, the nature of client-facing sales may occasionally require flexibility for client meetings outside typical hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for individuals who thrive in a dynamic, mobile work environment and prefer hands-on client interaction over a traditional office setting. The provision of essential tools (vehicle, phone, tablet) facilitates efficient field operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potentially a brief phone call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager to discuss experience, sales approach, design understanding, and cultural fit. Expect questions on past sales achievements and client management strategies.

• Second Interview/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a case study or design concept relevant to Urban Planters' services. This could involve a mock client pitch or a review of a past project.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or a panel to assess strategic thinking and long-term potential.

• DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service check may be required, depending on the specific client sites or nature of the work.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales accomplishments, use specific numbers and metrics (e.g., "increased sales by 15%," "secured 10 new key accounts").

• Showcase Design Process: If presenting design work, explain your thought process, the client's brief, how you selected plants, and the final outcome/impact. Visuals are crucial here.

• Highlight Client Relationships: Be prepared to discuss how you build and maintain client trust, handle challenging situations, and ensure repeat business.

• Tailor to Urban Planters: Research current trends in biophilic design, sustainability, and interior landscaping to demonstrate your understanding and alignment with the company's focus.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Pitch Practice: Prepare a brief, compelling pitch for Urban Planters' services, highlighting key benefits like well-being, productivity, and sustainability.

• Design Scenario: Consider how you would approach a hypothetical client request (e.g., designing a green wall for a modern office lobby).

• Territory Management: Think about how you would strategize your approach to covering London, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire to maximize lead generation and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on both sales and design means candidates should be ready to articulate their value proposition from both perspectives. A portfolio that visually demonstrates design capability and includes data-backed sales achievements will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a CRM like Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system for managing leads, accounts, and sales pipelines.

• Communication Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook for email, Word for proposals, Excel for tracking, PowerPoint for presentations).

• Mobile Devices: Company-provided mobile phone and tablet for on-the-go access to information, communication, and potentially design or CRM applications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Tools for tracking sales KPIs, revenue targets, and pipeline health.

• Reporting Software: Ability to generate reports on sales activities, client engagement, and project status.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Essential for managing client data, interactions, and sales processes.

• Potential for Design Software: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with basic design or visualization tools (e.g., SketchUp, Canva, or even advanced PowerPoint/Keynote) could be beneficial for creating proposals.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how CRM integrates with other business systems might be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard business software and a CRM is expected. While specialized design software isn't listed as a hard requirement, demonstrating an ability to create professional and visually appealing proposals using available tools will be key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• People First: A core value emphasizing care for colleagues, customers, and the community. This translates to supportive management, excellent customer service, and a positive work environment.

• Sustainability & Well-being: A strong commitment to environmental responsibility and enhancing human well-being through nature integration. This should be reflected in client interactions and business practices.

• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for industry leadership through high-quality service, continuous improvement, and innovative design solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Conducting business ethically and maintaining high standards of service delivery.

• Collaboration: A belief in teamwork and working together to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Teamwork: Working closely with installation, maintenance, and potentially design teams to ensure seamless project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Client-Centric Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication with clients, actively listening to their needs and providing timely updates.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, design ideas, and market insights among colleagues to foster collective growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "People First" ethos, combined with a focus on sustainability and innovation, suggests a company culture that values both individual contribution and collective impact. Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these values in their interactions and approach to work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Territory Management: Effectively covering a broad geographical area (London, Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire) requires strong time management and logistical planning.

• Competitive Landscape: The interior landscaping and design market can be competitive, requiring a compelling value proposition and strong sales skills to differentiate.

• Balancing Sales & Design: Successfully merging the demands of achieving sales targets with the creative requirements of design consulting can be challenging.

• Client Expectations: Managing diverse client expectations regarding aesthetics, budget, and plant maintenance requires adaptability and excellent communication.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Horticultural & Design Training: Access to industry-leading training to enhance expertise in plant science, design principles, and biophilic applications.

• Sales & Business Development Skills: Continuous development in sales techniques, negotiation, and client relationship management.

• Sustainability & Biophilic Design Expertise: Opportunities to become a recognized authority in these growing fields.

• Mentorship: Potential for guidance from experienced sales leaders and design professionals within Urban Planters and Rentokil Initial.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth for individuals passionate about nature, design, and client engagement. Overcoming the inherent challenges of a field-based sales role will be key to unlocking these development pathways.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience in business development and how you approach generating new leads in a B2B environment." (Focus on your process, tools, and success metrics.)

• "Walk us through a successful design project you managed. What was the client's brief, what were the challenges, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your design thinking, problem-solving, and client satisfaction.)

• "How do you balance achieving sales targets with providing excellent customer service and creative design solutions?" (Demonstrate your ability to manage competing priorities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Urban Planters and Rentokil Initial? Why are you interested in working with us?" (Research their services, values, and recent news.)

• "How do you align with our 'People First' culture and our focus on sustainability?" (Provide specific examples of how your values match theirs.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Storytelling: If presenting design work, use high-quality images and clearly explain the context, your role, and the impact of your designs.

• Data-Driven Sales: For sales achievements, present clear metrics and quantifiable results. Use charts or graphs if appropriate.

• Client-Centric Approach: Frame your experience around how you solved client problems and delivered value.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key achievements and experiences succinctly. Aim for impactful over exhaustive.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase a blend of hard sales skills and creative design thinking. Demonstrating an understanding of the company's unique selling proposition (biophilic design) and its culture will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this business development position:

• Submit your application through the Workable platform.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant sales experience, client management successes, and any design or horticultural knowledge. Use keywords from the job description such as "Business Development," "Sales," "Design," "Client Management," "Horticulture," and "Biophilic Design."

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble examples of your past sales achievements (with metrics) and any relevant design work (sketches, mood boards, project photos) that showcase your creative and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Urban Planters and Rentokil Initial. Understand their services, target markets, company values (especially "People First" and sustainability), and recent projects.

• Interview Practice: Prepare answers to common sales and behavioral interview questions, and practice articulating your approach to client engagement, sales strategy, and design ideation.

⚠️ 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.

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