Business Development (Design) Consultant at Rentokil Initial Group

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Business Development (Design) Consultant

Company: Rentokil Initial Group (Urban Planters)

Location: Coventry, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Revenue Operations / Sales Operations / GTM (Business Development & Client Management Focus)

Date Posted: 2026-03-24T16:17:49.619

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Drive new business development and manage a portfolio of existing clients within the interior landscaping and biophilic design sector.
Leverage design principles and horticultural expertise to create and implement innovative interior landscapes, floral, and Christmas displays for commercial clients.
Achieve agreed sales targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through effective lead generation, client nurturing, and exceptional customer service.
Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless project delivery from initial design to installation and ongoing maintenance.
Contribute to the company's mission of enhancing well-being, productivity, and sustainability through nature integration in indoor environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Business Development (Design) Consultant," has significant overlap with Sales Operations and Go-To-Market (GTM) functions. The emphasis on client portfolio management, sales targets, lead generation, and KPI achievement directly aligns with sales operations responsibilities. The "Design Consultant" aspect implies a consultative sales approach, requiring an understanding of product/service application and client needs, which is crucial for effective GTM strategy execution. The operations aspect lies in the systematic management of client relationships, sales pipelines, and the processes required to deliver design-led services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Sales Target Achievement: Deliver against agreed sales targets and revenue goals through proactive business development and client engagement.
Client Portfolio Management: Effectively manage and grow a portfolio of existing clients, identifying opportunities for upselling and cross-selling services.
New Business Development: Generate new leads through field-based prospecting, networking, and strategic outreach within the Birmingham, Coventry, and Warwickshire regions.
Design & Implementation: Create, design, and oversee the implementation of interior landscapes, floral displays, and Christmas decorations, aligning with client needs and biophilic design principles.
Customer Relationship Management: Nurture and maintain strong, long-term relationships with new and existing customers by providing excellent service and tailored solutions.
Performance Tracking: Work towards and achieve set KPIs and targets, reporting on progress and identifying areas for improvement.
Horticulture & Design Integration: Combine horticultural expertise with design principles to select appropriate plants, design layouts, and enhance indoor environments for well-being and productivity.
Project Oversight: Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively from initial consultation through to installation and, where applicable, maintenance planning.
Trend Analysis: Stay abreast of industry trends in interior landscaping, biophilic design, and sustainable practices to offer innovative solutions.
Stakeholder Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with clients, internal teams, and external partners throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales execution and consultative client engagement. In an operations context, this translates to managing the sales pipeline, ensuring service delivery quality, and optimizing the client acquisition and retention processes. The emphasis on "design" requires a consultative sales approach, where understanding client needs and translating them into tangible solutions is paramount, aligning with GTM enablement functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in a relevant field such as Horticulture, Landscape Design, Interior Design, Business Administration, or a related discipline is advantageous.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in a client-facing role, with a strong emphasis on sales, business development, or account management. Experience within the B2B service sector, particularly in design-led industries, horticulture, or commercial landscaping, is highly preferred.

Required Skills:

Sales Acumen: Proven ability to meet and exceed sales targets, including lead generation, pipeline management, and closing deals.
Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with internal teams (e.g., design, installation, maintenance) and external stakeholders.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for client consultations, presentations, and internal reporting.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address client needs and overcome project challenges.
Project Management: Competence in managing multiple projects, timelines, and client expectations simultaneously.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to design, planning, and client service to ensure high-quality delivery.
Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated commitment to providing outstanding service and building strong client relationships.
IT Proficiency: Competent in using standard IT tools for communication, CRM, and presentation (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, CRM systems).
Valid UK Driving Licence: Must hold a full UK driving licence for over two years with no more than six penalty points.

Preferred Skills:

Horticulture Expertise: Knowledge of plant types, their care requirements, and suitability for various indoor environments.
Design Principles: Understanding of interior design, landscape design, and biophilic design principles.
Sustainable Practices: Awareness of environmental sustainability and biodiversity enhancement within design contexts.
CRM Software: Experience with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for managing client data and sales activities.
Budget Management: Experience in managing project budgets and financial aspects of client proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "preferred skills" are crucial for excelling in the consultative aspect of this role. In an operations context, candidates with strong horticultural and design knowledge can more effectively translate client needs into viable service offerings, thereby streamlining the sales-to-delivery process and reducing potential rework or client dissatisfaction. Strong IT and CRM skills are vital for operational efficiency in tracking client interactions and sales progress.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Sales Case Studies: Showcase successful client acquisition and account growth, detailing the strategies employed and outcomes achieved. Highlight how you identified opportunities and closed deals.
Design Project Examples: Present a selection of interior landscape, floral, or Christmas design projects. For each, detail the client brief, your design approach, chosen plant species (if applicable), implementation process, and the impact on the client's environment.
Client Management Examples: Illustrate your approach to nurturing client relationships, managing their ongoing needs, and driving repeat business or expansion of services.
Process Optimization Examples: If applicable, demonstrate instances where you improved sales processes, client onboarding, or project delivery workflows to enhance efficiency or client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

Sales Workflow Documentation: Be prepared to discuss how you approach the sales process from lead generation to closing, including any personal methodologies or systems used.
Client Onboarding Procedures: Detail how you would typically onboard a new client, from initial consultation to project kickoff, ensuring all necessary information is gathered and documented.
Project Delivery Process: Explain your approach to managing the lifecycle of a design and installation project, including key milestones, communication touchpoints, and quality assurance measures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role blending sales and design, a portfolio should demonstrate not only creative output but also a systematic approach to business development and client management. Operations professionals will look for evidence of repeatable processes, data-driven decision-making within sales, and the ability to translate creative concepts into commercially viable solutions. Demonstrating an understanding of workflow optimization is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Business Development Consultants with 2-5 years of experience in the UK, particularly in sales-focused roles with commission structures, a typical salary range would be approximately £30,000 - £45,000 per annum. This range is subject to performance, experience, and the specific commission structure.

Benefits:

Performance-Based Earnings: Opportunity to earn more with regular bonus and commission schemes, directly rewarding sales success.
Company Vehicle & Fuel Card: Provision of a company vehicle and fuel card for business-related travel.
Salary Grading System: Linked to performance, offering a pathway for career progression and increased earnings for high achievers.
RI Rewards: Access to a comprehensive discount scheme with over 3,000 retailers, offering cashback and savings.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free, confidential 24/7 support service for employees and their families, covering a range of personal and professional challenges.
Long Service Recognition: Additional annual leave entitlement awarded upon completion of five years of service.
Refer a Friend Bonus: Financial incentive for referring successful candidates to Rentokil Initial.
Mobile Phone & Tablet: Provision of essential communication and work tools.
Uniform: Provided for a professional appearance.

Working Hours: Full-time, permanent role, Monday to Friday, with a standard 37.5-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar Business Development and Sales Consultant roles in the UK, considering the mid-level experience requirement. The inclusion of commission and performance-based bonuses is a significant component of the total compensation, reflecting the sales-driven nature of the role. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering both financial incentives and support for employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Business Services (Interior Landscaping, Design, Grounds Maintenance, Hygiene, Pest Control). Urban Planters operates within the specialized field of interior landscaping and biophilic design consulting, a growing sector focused on enhancing workplace well-being and sustainability. Rentokil Initial, as the parent company, is a global leader in pest control, hygiene, and indeed, interior landscaping (Ambius).

Company Size: Rentokil Initial is a large, FTSE50 listed global corporation with operations in over 90 countries and a significant employee base. Urban Planters functions as a specialized division within this larger entity, likely offering the agility of a focused business unit with the resources and stability of a major corporation. This duality can provide unique career opportunities.

Founded: Urban Planters began trading in 1965, establishing a long history in the industry. Rentokil Initial has an even longer heritage, founded in 1906. This extensive history suggests a company with deep industry knowledge, established processes, and a commitment to long-term growth and client relationships.

Team Structure:

Urban Planters Division: Likely comprises sales consultants, designers, horticulturalists, installation teams, and maintenance crews, operating regionally.
Reporting Structure: The Business Development (Design) Consultant will likely report to a Sales Manager or Regional Manager within the Urban Planters division.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with design teams, operations/installation crews, and potentially customer service or administrative support staff to ensure seamless service delivery.

Methodology:

Biophilic Design & Biodiversity Consulting: A core methodology focused on integrating nature into built environments to improve human well-being, productivity, and environmental sustainability.
Data-Driven Client Solutions: Utilizing insights into client needs, environmental conditions, and plant science to propose effective and tailored solutions.
Performance-Oriented Operations: Emphasis on achieving sales targets, KPIs, and client satisfaction through efficient processes and skilled execution.

Company Website: https://www.urbanplanters.co.uk/ and https://www.rentokil-initial.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the scale of Rentokil Initial provides context for career progression and resource availability, while Urban Planters' specific focus on biophilic design highlights a forward-thinking approach to workplace environments. The blend of a specialized division within a global corporation offers unique operational dynamics.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level (2-5 years experience), focusing on client acquisition and management within a specialized service industry. It requires a blend of sales drive, creative thinking, and operational awareness to manage client projects effectively.

Reporting Structure: The Business Development (Design) Consultant will likely report to a Sales Manager or a Head of Business Development within the Urban Planters division. This structure offers direct mentorship and performance management, crucial for developing sales and client management skills.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts revenue generation through new client acquisition and retention. By successfully implementing biophilic design solutions, the consultant enhances client spaces, contributing to improved occupant well-being, productivity, and sustainability, which are increasingly important value propositions for businesses. This contributes to the overall GTM strategy by expanding market share and reinforcing the company's brand as an innovator in environmental design.

Growth Opportunities:

Senior Business Development Consultant: Progression to managing larger accounts, more complex projects, or leading a team of consultants.
Sales Management: Moving into a leadership role, overseeing sales teams, setting strategy, and driving regional performance.
Specialization: Developing deep expertise in specific areas like Biophilic Design Consulting, large-scale Green Wall projects, or Christmas Display Curation.
Cross-Divisional Opportunities: Potential to leverage experience within the broader Rentokil Initial group in areas like account management or business development in related service sectors.
Training & Development: Access to industry-leading training, potentially including certifications in horticulture, design, or sales methodologies, supported by Rentokil Initial's investment in colleague development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path here is clearly defined within sales and business development, with opportunities for specialization or management. The "operations" aspect involves mastering the processes of client engagement, project scoping, and service delivery to ensure consistent client satisfaction and profitable growth, which are key metrics for GTM success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a field-based role, requiring significant time spent off-site at client locations across Birmingham, Coventry, and Warwickshire. There will likely be access to a local branch office or a home-based setup with regular reporting and team meetings.

Office Location(s): The primary operational territory is Birmingham/Coventry/Warwickshire. While there might not be a dedicated "office" for this role, access to a regional Urban Planters hub or a Rentokil Initial office for administrative support and team gatherings may be available.

Workspace Context:

Field-Centric: The consultant's "workspace" is largely the client's environment, requiring adaptability and professionalism in diverse settings (offices, hotels, retail spaces, etc.).
Tools & Technology: Provision of a company vehicle, fuel card, mobile phone, and tablet are essential for managing the mobile nature of the role, enabling communication, CRM access, and design work on the go.
Team Interaction: Regular interaction with field teams (installers, maintenance) and potentially with remote design support or sales management will be key for project execution and collaboration.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (37.5 per week) from Monday to Friday. While the core hours are set, the nature of field sales may require some flexibility to accommodate client meetings and project timelines, managed through effective self-scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The field-based nature of this role is a critical aspect for operations. It implies a need for strong self-management, efficient travel planning, and effective use of mobile technology to maintain productivity and communication. The integration of design and sales requires a "mobile office" approach.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, motivation, and cultural fit.
Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the Sales Manager or Head of Business Development, focusing on sales experience, client management skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. Expect scenario-based questions.
Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: Candidates will likely be asked to present examples from their portfolio, demonstrating their design approach, sales successes, and client management strategies. This may involve a prepared presentation or a discussion of specific case studies.
Field/Site Visit (Potential): In some cases, a brief shadowing experience or a visit to a client site might be arranged to assess practical application of skills and on-site presence.
Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior management or a panel to confirm suitability and discuss long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Quantify Achievements: For sales successes, use metrics (e.g., revenue generated, deals closed, client retention rates). For design projects, highlight client satisfaction, environmental impact, or aesthetic improvements.
Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your approach to client engagement, needs assessment, design development, and project execution. Demonstrate how you manage timelines and budgets.
Tailor to the Role: Emphasize examples relevant to interior design, horticulture, B2B sales, and client relationship management. Highlight your understanding of biophilic design principles if possible.
Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually engaging (especially for design elements), and easy to navigate.
Storytelling: Frame your case studies as narratives – the challenge, your solution, and the successful outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

Sales Scenarios: Be prepared to role-play client interactions, handle objections, and pitch services effectively.
Design Problem-Solving: Practice developing quick design concepts based on hypothetical client briefs and site conditions.
Business Acumen: Understand the company's services, target market, and competitive landscape. Be ready to discuss how you would approach business development in the specified region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily weigh practical experience and demonstrable results. A strong portfolio that showcases both sales acumen and design sensibility, along with a clear understanding of process, will be critical. Operations professionals involved in hiring will look for evidence of structured thinking and client management capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

CRM System: Essential for managing client interactions, tracking sales pipelines, logging leads, and forecasting revenue. Specific systems like Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary Rentokil Initial CRM are likely.
Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word (for proposals, reports), Excel (for budgeting, data analysis), PowerPoint (for client presentations), and Outlook (for communication and scheduling) is fundamental.
Mobile Devices: Company-provided mobile phone and tablet will be used for communication, accessing CRM, design software, and potentially project management tools on the go.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM Reporting Features: Ability to generate reports on sales pipeline, lead conversion rates, customer acquisition cost (CAC), and client retention metrics.
Spreadsheet Software (Excel): For ad-hoc data analysis, financial modeling, and performance tracking.

Design & Visualization Tools (Preferred):

Basic Design Software: Familiarity with tools used for creating mood boards, conceptual layouts, or visual representations of designs (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite basics, or specialized interior design software) would be advantageous.
Presentation Software: Advanced use of PowerPoint or similar tools for compelling client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CRM systems is paramount for sales operations and GTM functions, as it underpins pipeline management and sales forecasting. The ability to leverage these tools for data analysis and reporting is crucial for demonstrating operational effectiveness. Familiarity with design software, even at a basic level, bridges the gap between sales and the service delivery aspect.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Putting People First: A core value of Rentokil Initial, emphasizing care for colleagues, customers, and the wider community. For this role, it means prioritizing client well-being and fostering positive working relationships.
Performance Driven: A strong focus on achieving targets and driving business growth, reflected in the salary grading system and commission structures.
Integrity & Professionalism: Operating with honesty, delivering high-quality service, and maintaining a professional demeanor in all client interactions.
Innovation & Sustainability: A commitment to finding new ways to incorporate nature and promote sustainable practices, aligning with the growing demand for biophilic design.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively within the Urban Planters team and across the Rentokil Initial group to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

Field-to-Office Communication: Regular and clear communication between field-based consultants and internal support teams (design, operations, admin) is essential for seamless project delivery.
Customer-Centric Approach: All collaborative efforts are geared towards understanding and exceeding customer expectations.
Shared Success: A culture that celebrates collective achievements, particularly in sales targets and successful project completions.
Continuous Improvement: Encouragement to share insights and feedback to refine processes and enhance service offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Putting People First" and "Performance Driven" highlights a balanced approach to business operations—prioritizing both employee/client well-being and robust commercial outcomes. This is a common and effective ethos in service-oriented organizations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Territory Management: Effectively covering the designated sales territory (Birmingham/Coventry/Warwickshire) to maximize lead generation and client engagement.
Balancing Sales & Design: Juggling the demands of direct sales activities with the creative and technical requirements of design consultation.
Seasonal Peaks: Managing workload and client expectations during peak periods, such as Christmas display installations.
Market Competition: Differentiating Urban Planters' services in a competitive market for interior landscaping and design.
Client Education: Educating potential clients on the benefits and value of biophilic design and professional interior landscaping.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Specialized Training: Access to industry-leading training in horticulture, design principles, and biophilic design consultancy.
Sales Methodologies: Development in consultative selling techniques, negotiation, and client relationship management.
Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of plant species, their care, and suitability for various environments.
Career Advancement: Clear pathways for progression into senior sales roles, management positions, or specialized consulting roles within Rentokil Initial.
Industry Events: Potential to attend relevant trade shows, conferences, and workshops to stay abreast of industry trends and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: Addressing these challenges proactively, and leveraging the provided learning opportunities, will be key to success and career growth in this role. Operations professionals often look for candidates who can demonstrate resilience and a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"How would you approach developing a new client base in the Coventry area for interior landscaping services?" (Focus: Lead generation strategy, market understanding)
"Describe a time you had to balance a client's aesthetic desires with practical horticultural constraints. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus: Problem-solving, design integration, client management)

Company & Culture Questions:

"What interests you about Urban Planters and our approach to biophilic design?" (Focus: Company research, cultural alignment)
"How do you stay updated on design trends and horticultural best practices?" (Focus: Proactiveness, continuous learning)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Structure: Begin with an overview of your experience, then dive into 2-3 key case studies that best represent your skills in sales, design, and client management.
Highlight Impact: For sales cases, quantify revenue and growth. For design cases, focus on client satisfaction, aesthetic improvements, and any measurable benefits (e.g., improved well-being, sustainability).
Process Explanation: Clearly walk through your methodology for client acquisition, needs assessment, design conception, and project delivery.
Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your projects, decision-making processes, and how you would apply your skills to Urban Planters' business.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of commercial drive and creative problem-solving. Candidates need to articulate not just what they did, but how they did it, and why it was effective, showcasing their operational thinking within a sales and design context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your sales achievements, client management experience, and any design or horticultural background. Use keywords from the job description such as "Business Development," "Sales," "Client Management," "Design," and "Horticulture."
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong examples of successful sales initiatives and design projects. Be ready to present these, focusing on quantifiable results and your process.
Research Urban Planters & Rentokil Initial: Understand their services, values, and recent projects. Familiarize yourself with the concept of biophilic design and its benefits.
Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common sales, behavioral, and situational questions, focusing on demonstrating your problem-solving skills and client-centric approach.

⚠️ 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 Development (Design) Consultant