Business Development Consultant

Job Introduction

Are you passionate about building strong business relationships and driving educational opportunities? East Durham College is seeking a motivated Business Development Consultant to join our dynamic team.

About the Role:

You will play a key role in identifying employer training needs and marketing our apprenticeships as well as our flexible, work-based curriculum — to local and regional businesses. Acting as a primary contact for employers, you will help foster strong relationships that encourage repeat business while contributing to curriculum development and supporting learner recruitment and retention.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain productive relationships with regional businesses to deliver tailored training and development solutions.
• Understand and promote East Durham College’s full range of courses and services to meet employer needs effectively.
• Work towards meeting both team and individual targets.
• Conduct training and organisational needs analyses to recommend suitable training and funding options.
• Negotiate contracts and prepare proposals with partners and clients.
• Monitor market trends to identify opportunities for growth.
• Collaborate with curriculum, quality, and MIS teams to ensure smooth and timely delivery of training.
• Report regularly on performance, provide feedback, and represent the College at regional and national employer forums.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain lasting business relationships.
• Proven experience in employer engagement, business development, or a similar role.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• A proactive, flexible approach to meeting business and learner needs.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
• Awareness of current economic and labour market trends.

What we offer:

• 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays. 
• LGPS Pension Scheme with up to 17.5% employer contributions. 
• Access to a Cash Healthcare Plan. 
• Free Gym Membership.
• Enhanced Maternity/ Paternity and Adoption leave. 
• 3 days paid emergency leave per year.
• Various Paid and unpaid leave for other needs.
• Funded Continuous Professional Development (CPD) where appropriate.
• Onsite restaurant, Canteen and Hair and Beauty Salon.
• Free onsite parking.
• On site Nursery facilities (up to 5 yoa).
• Cycle to work scheme and much more.
• Access to free Beamish Tickets. 

Join Our Team at East Durham College

Now is the perfect time to become part of our fantastic team at East Durham College! With recent investments enhancing our already outstanding teaching facilities and further development on the horizon, the College offers an excellent environment for both staff and students. We take pride in providing access to education for all, offering clear pathways through various stages of learning with a strong focus on employment opportunities across the North East region. We’re also thrilled to have earned our fifth consecutive ‘GOOD’ rating from Ofsted.

East Durham College operates across three campuses, delivering a wide range of courses from general further education and A-Levels to specialist land-based and technical programs, ensuring there is something for everyone. As a team member, you’ll enjoy a generous holiday entitlement, Local Government or Teachers Pensions, free gym access (Willerby Grove Campus), free parking, and much more.

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive community where everyone can be themselves and succeed. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our dynamic workforce.

As part of our commitment to equality and diversity, East Durham College operates a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants who meet the essential criteria, as part of our status as a Disability Confident Employer.

At East Durham College, we uphold Safer Recruitment and Keeping Children Safe in Education standards. This role requires an enhanced DBS check. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. 

For more information about the College, please visit our Creating outstanding futures | East Durham College.