Business Development Lead / Partnerships Lead

Business Development Lead – Partnerships Cardiff/London based - Hybrid - 1 or 2 days a week in office £90,000 - £120,000 + bonus/benefits Business Platforms We are looking for a Business Development Lead to join a growing Partnerships function. This is a pivotal first hire into the Business Development Lead role. You will be responsible for originating new partnerships, delivering deals and then owning the commercial growth and retention of those relationships over time. You will own a defined market vertical and become the internal expert in that space, translating market insight into high-quality partner opportunities and commercially valuable relationships. Business Platforms The priority sector for this role will be business platforms, including: Digital banks and SME finance platforms Accounting and bookkeeping software providers Own growth within a defined vertical and develop a clear strategy for partner acquisition and expansion Lead outreach, pitching, negotiation and deal structuring through to signed agreements Own senior partner relationships post-signature, driving commercial performance, renewals and expansion Manage deal performance and economics, working closely with Finance, Product and Operations to ensure partnerships are profitable and scalable Strategic fit and partner management Quality of the partnership pipeline We are looking for a commercially minded Business Development or Partnerships leader with experience in B2B sales, partnerships or platform-led growth. Proven experience in business development, partnerships or B2B sales Experience working with platforms, fintech, insurtech, mobility or financial services ecosystems The ability to research markets, identify whitespace and articulate where the business can create differentiated value Experience managing multiple partnerships and driving measurable commercial outcomes The priority is strong platform partnership origination, commercial proposition building and the ability to turn insight into scalable partnership growth.