Head Of Sales

Job Description

This role is responsible for driving the strategic growth and commercial development of the organisation through effective pipeline management, bid coordination, and proactive client engagement. The individual will support the pre-construction sales process, working closely with estimating, design, and project teams to secure high-value opportunities that align with growth objectives. The role also entails leading the internal sales team, contributing to marketing strategies, and ensuring the organisation maintains its reputation as a first-class fire protection solutions provider.

Location: Reading/Hybrid 3 to 4 Days Office/Site Visits and remainder home working\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nStrategic Development & Client Engagement\n\nCollaborate closely with directors to identify, qualify, and secure new business opportunities while nurturing existing client relationships.\n\nPlay a critical role in shaping the future sales strategy and building a robust, sustainable pipeline.\n\nTake a selective and strategic approach to tendering, focusing on opportunities that align with core values and long-term objectives.\n\nRepresent the organisation at industry events and meetings, strengthening its profile and building relationships with key stakeholders.\n\nProposal Management & Technical Input\n\n * Support the design and of tenders, particularly in the Data Centre (DC) market, covering:\n\n * Fire Detection and Visual Alarm SystemsPAVA and Electronic Sounder Evacuation Systems\n\n * Emergency Voice Communication (EVC)Aspirating Detection Systems (CRAC/CRAH, Data Halls, Voids)\n\n * Secondary Containment Design based on primary layouts\n\n * Panel Architecture and engineering-led solutions\n\n * Gantry and generator-related fire safety solutions\n\n * Integration of sprinkler, water mist, and gaseous suppression systems in collaboration with technical teams and departmentsIdentify and address scope gaps, risks, and interfacing issues early in the tender stage to ensure robust, engineered solutions.\n\nSales & Team Leadership\n\nSupport and mentor the internal direct sales team, ensuring alignment with company targets and fostering a performance-driven culture.\n\nContribute to the development and execution of the marketing strategy in partnership with the leadership team.\n\nOversee the full tender process including bid preparation, document submission, cost estimation, negotiations, and record-keeping.\n\nCommercial Oversight & Handover\n\nEnsure accurate preparation of project build budgets and of validated subcontractor quotations prior to submission.\n\nSupport a seamless transition from sales to contracts through detailed handovers and continuous project team engagement.\n\nReview creditworthiness of new clients prior to tender engagement.\n\nTrack contract budgets, maintain commercial records, and contribute to forecasting and reporting of divisional performance via CRM systems.\n\nQuality, Safety & Compliance\n\nEnsure proposals and sales strategies adhere to safety regulations, quality standards, and company policies.\n\nPromote the organisation’s reputation for quality, professionalism, and technical excellence in all client interactions and internal collaborations.\n\nContribute to the preparation of design documents, method statements, drawings, and calculations required up to the contract handover stage.\n\nMarket & Competitor Intelligence\n\nMonitor competitor activity and industry developments to inform strategic direction and identify emerging opportunities or threats.\n\nSkills, Knowledge & Experience\n\nProven experience in leading high-value proposals and business development within the fire protection or M&E sectors.\n\nStrong technical understanding of fire systems and integrated life safety solutions.\n\nExceptional client management, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills.\n\nDemonstrated ability to support and develop a successful sales team.\n\nFamiliarity with the Data Centre sector ().\n\nAbility to interpret complex specifications and engineer compliant, cost-effective solutions.\n\nProficient in budget forecasting, commercial analysis, and tender documentation.\n\nPerson Specification\n\nDegree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline ().\n\nRelevant fire safety or life systems accreditations (e.g., FIA, LPCB, or equivalent).\n\nFull UK driving licence and willingness to travel nationally as required.\n\nCSCS and/or NVQ Level 6 or higher or equivalent H&S certification desirable.\n\nRight to work in the UK