Business Development Consultant

Are you a commercially driven relationship-builder with a passion for education and skills development? The University of Portsmouth is seeking a Business Development Consultant to support the growth of our Apprenticeships and our Flexible & Professional Learning portfolio. This is a key front-facing role focused on generating new business, developing employer partnerships, and converting opportunities into learner starts that deliver impact for individuals, organisations and society.

Working as part of a collaborative business development team within the Institute for Professional and Flexible Learning, you will play a critical role in meeting ambitious recruitment and income targets while ensuring a high-quality, coordinated experience for employers and learners.

• Proactively identifying and securing new business opportunities across Apprenticeships and our Professional and Flexible Learning provision
• Generating leads, engaging employers and prospective learners, and driving enrolments across a defined course portfolio
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with employers, faculty colleagues and external stakeholders
• Representing the University at employer events, trade forums and networking activities
• Working closely with academic teams, marketing and research colleagues to ensure a coordinated approach to business development
• Maintaining accurate records of employer engagement and pipeline activity using the University’s CRM system
• Identifying opportunities for collaboration, funding and market growth, sharing intelligence across the University
• Supporting the organisation and delivery of events and seminars that promote professional and flexible learning

• Extensive sales or business development experience, ideally within education, apprenticeships or skills
• Experience of working in a large, complex organisation
• Strong knowledge of apprenticeships and work-based learning, including funding rules and regulatory requirements
• A proven track record of meeting or exceeding growth or income targets
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and influence stakeholders
• Strong commercial awareness and the ability to develop long-term strategic partnerships
• The ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners

Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week, hybrid working is available for this role.

The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on 10 February 2026.

If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Alice Gray at