HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Principal Connections - executive search has been exclusively retained by a leading provider of bespoke digital strategy, technology solutions, and marketing services to luxury hotel brands worldwide. This organisation partners with distinguished hotels to maximise their direct booking performance through an integrated approach combining strategic planning, technology innovation, and service excellence. Headquartered on the scenic west coast of Ireland, with additional teams based internationally, the company operates across key markets with a growing client base throughout Europe and beyond. With an ambitious growth agenda, the organisation now seeks to appoint a highly driven and commercially astute Head of Business Development to spearhead its domestic and international sales strategy. THE POSITION The Head of Business Development will play a pivotal role in expanding the company's market presence and accelerating revenue growth. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the appointed candidate will develop and implement strategic sales initiatives, build relationships with key decision makers, and drive new business opportunities within the global luxury hospitality sector. The appointee will collaborate closely with account management, marketing and technical teams to align client offerings, craft compelling sales pitches, and deliver outstanding client experiences from first contact through to onboarding. This role demands a proactive approach to outbound sales, while also leveraging inbound opportunities, underpinned by expert negotiation capabilities and an analytical mindset to monitor performance and optimise results. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where initiative, innovation, and relationship-building are highly valued. REQUIREMENTS The successful candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, or a related discipline, and will bring extensive experience in business development or sales, ideally with a technology or software sales background or similar. They will demonstrate a proven record of achieving revenue growth, developing strategic partnerships, and delivering measurable sales outcomes. A confident and credible communicator, the appointee will have significant experience engaging with client decision makers at a senior management level or above, shaping tailored solutions, and negotiating complex commercial agreements. Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation skills are essential, together with a deep understanding of outbound and inbound sales strategies. The appointee will combine analytical and problem-solving strengths with commercial acumen and the ability to work independently or as part of a cross-functional team. A willingness to travel and strong familiarity with CRM systems are also required. REMUNERATION A highly attractive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate, including a base salary and commission incentive. The appointment will also include a comprehensive benefits package encompassing pension, health insurance, paid leave, flexible and remote working arrangements, and a range of wellness initiatives. Additional benefits include profit-sharing, referral bonuses, annual offsite events, and a day off to celebrate the appointee's birthday. HOW TO APPLY If you believe that you meet the requirements necessary to take on this important role, please submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae via the available 'Apply Option' in strictest confidence, for the attention of Mark Middleton, Partner of our retained executive search partners, Principal Connections - executive search on or before 12 noon on Friday 28th November 2025. For a confidential discussion, please contact Mark Middleton on . ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Principal Connections is acting as an employment agency and has been retained to manage this important appointment process. Principal Connections and our clients are committed to equality of opportunity in employment. We adhere fully to the principles of the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015 and the Fair Employment and Treatment (Northern Ireland) Order 1998. Candidates for this post will be sourced through both an advertised selection and executive search process. Only applications submitted through the available online application options or via the email address provided where a print advertisement will be considered. Please note that any offer of employment will be made subject to satisfactory reference checks as well as any other background checks and/or assessments deemed appropriate to the process. By applying for this vacancy with Principal Connections, you accept the Term's & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookies Policy which can be found on our website. ABOUT PRINCIPAL CONNECTIONS Principal Connections is a leading executive search and leadership consulting firm serving organisations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and internationally. We are also part of Agilium Worldwide LLC (Est. 1984), independently ranked one of the world's top global executive search groups. (55+ offices, 30+ countries, 250+ consultants). Visit our other Live Assignments Skills: Sales BusinessDevelopment Marketing Travel Digital Online