Network Development Manager jobs
It goes without saying that a company’s clients are its key asset, without whom they would cease to exist. Maximising the potential of existing clients and seeking out new ones is the job of the network development manager.
As efficient operations go, seeking out new customers can cost a lot of effort for potentially small gains, partly because the relationship is always starting from scratch and there could be limited trust between the parties. But keeping hold of existing clients and developing new opportunities from them can be a great route to profitability as these main drawbacks of cold sales are eliminated. The network development manager will be in charge of maximising these relationships, seeking out new opportunities through them (for example by offering to share logistics with their suppliers), but also with the ongoing search for new clients.
The role is a cross between account management and sales, and the skills required will match those for these specialitys. Network development management is therefore ideally suited to people with experience of at least one these tasks to a high level, but preferably both.
The skills required
Superb communications skills will be key to the success of this position, and a persuasive nature will be key. A willingness to really get under the skin of your own company and do all your homework on the client’s will make the role profitable. That way you will be able to make deliverable promises in meetings without having to refer to head office, an important part of a job when striking while the iron is hot will bring dividends.
As head of a team of account managers and sales staff, superb motivational and man management skills will be essential too. Leads must be communicated clearly and in a way that can be actioned upon, and good intelligence sharing will be important here.
Analytical skills will be required to identify new openings within the existing network and also those related to the network. A deep understanding of logistics and the particular sector in which the employer operates will be advantageous.
Network Development Manager Jobs in Widnes
At the north-eastern edge of Cheshire lies Widnes, a town of around 60,000 population built on heavy industry, particularly chemicals, where ICI had a huge presence for decades before fragmenting in the 1990s. The chemical industry chose Widnes partly for the plentiful supply of water, just like Runcorn, to which it is joined by a railway and road bridge over the Mersey.
The centre of Liverpool is 11 miles (17 km) to the west, with Liverpool John Lennon Airport just 4 miles (7km) form the centre of Widnes. Although not actually in Widnes, the Jaguar Land rover car production plant is just outside the town in Halewood, and it has been a large employer of people from Widnes. For decades the plant was owned by Ford, and the locals still cal the main boulevard that passes it “The Ford Road”. Under the new management, the factory is doing extremely well, helped by a local enthusiastic workforce.
Widnes has two musical claims to fame, one certain, one apocryphal. First was the Stone Roses’ Spike Island gig, the pinnacle of the Madchester scene in 1990. The second claim is that Paul Simon wrote “Homeward Bound” at Widnes Station, although Simon isn’t 100% sure himself!
Widnes has retained many of its industrial plants, although they are no longer owned by the giant ICI, and have been taken over by a multitude of companies. The well-connected town is handy for Liverpool, Warrington, St Helens and Runcorn, and has the M62 at its northern point. All this makes it a good place to locate any logistics operations, and indeed, Network Development Manager jobs or similar positions have been through our system in Widnes.
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Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
As our founder members and consultants all come from logistics, procurement and supply chain, at Cast UK we know what both employers and candidates are looking for. As we deal with these sectors exclusively, employers trust us to create candidate shortlists because they know we’ll help them find the best people for the jobs.
If you’re moving home to a new town or city, check out the positions available in the region; we’re a nationwide consultancy with jobs in every county. Or perhaps you’re just looking for a career change; why not have a look around the site or get in touch with us direct to start your job search. If we have your details, you’re in the best possible position to find the ideal job the moment it arises.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Network Development Manager for your business or find you a job as a Network Development Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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