Network Development Manager - Ashford

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 Ashford

The Kent town of Ashford was traditionally a market town and stop-off point for London to Folkestone or Dover travellers. Although it has a moderately large population of around 65,000, it is by far the largest settlement for 20 miles in any direction, and remains an important shopping town in the region, especially now that it has a designer outlet to accompany its several shopping districts.

It is the railways that have played the largest part in Ashford’s history since the nineteenth century, however. The town served as an important hub for trains to London (50 miles, or 80 km, to the north west), Tonbridge, Hastings, Folkestone and Canterbury and this brought trade and population to the town. But Ashford’s link with the railways became international when it was made a stop on the Eurostar line to France in 1996. The town now has at least five distinct trading and industrial estates, some of which are located there mainly thanks to its excellent links with London and the Continent.

Ashford has always been a busy town but the Eurostar line coming to town has made it a key element in Britain’s transport infrastructure. Ashford is also well connected by road, with the M20/A20 that links Folkestone/Dover and London passing by Ashford’s eastern borders. This all adds up to a positive picture for anyone seeking Network Development Manager jobs in Ashford or the surrounding area.

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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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