Fire Design Solutions

About FDS Group FDS Group is a leading provider of smoke ventilation and fire alarm solutions, specialising in the design, supply, installation, and maintenance of innovative fire and smoke safety systems. Our expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant systems have made us a trusted partner to a wide range of sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and healthcare. Job Summary FDS Group, based in Greenhithe, Kent, is looking for a dynamic, experienced, and highly motivated Business Development Manager to join our growing team. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious professional with a strong background in construction, building services, or fire safety systems to play a key role in expanding our maintenance division. Your focus will be on developing new business opportunities, with any existing client portfolio seen as a welcome advantage. You will be responsible for driving maintenance contract sales for both smoke ventilation and fire alarm systems, covering FDS-installed and third-party installations. (Training in smoke ventilation can be given) In this client-facing role, you will manage and grow relationships, carry out site surveys, prepare competitive proposals, ensure compliance with industry standards, and collaborate closely with our technical and operational teams to deliver exceptional service. This is a high-impact position with the scope to significantly influence business growth while building long-term value for clients across the UK. Key Responsibilities Business Development & Sales Growth Identify, engage, and secure new maintenance contracts for smoke ventilation and fire alarm systems, including installation by FDS and third-party systems. Build and nurture relationships with M&E contractors, developers, facilities managers, and consultants. Conduct targeted business development, including cold calls, networking, and industry events, to build a robust sales pipeline. Site Surveys, Quoting & Proposals Conduct site surveys to assess system health, maintenance needs, and potential upgrades. Prepare technically accurate and commercially competitive quotations and proposals for maintenance services. CRM & Pipeline Management Maintain and regularly update the CRM system to track leads, pipeline status, quotations, and opportunities. Monitor conversion rates and forecast sales performance. Account Management & Client Retention Serve as the main liaison for clients; ensure service satisfaction and identify upsell opportunities. Foster long-term relationships to encourage repeat business and referrals. Regulatory Compliance & Technical Oversight Stay abreast of relevant UK standards (e.g., BS 5839 for fire alarms, SCA guidance for smoke ventilation maintenance) and ensure all proposals and services comply. Collaborate with FDS maintenance engineers to ensure safe and compliant service delivery. Reporting & Analytics Deliver regular reports on revenue, conversion, pipeline status, client satisfaction, and maintenance trends. Provide senior management with actionable insights to steer strategy and growth. Required Skills & Qualifications Experience: Proven track record in sales/business development within the fire & security or smoke ventilation sectors, especially maintenance contracts. Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with smoke ventilation systems (AOVs, mechanical smoke shafts, dampers) and fire alarm systems. Understanding of standards such as BS 5839, SCA maintenance guidance, etc. Smoke ventilation training can be given Communication & Negotiation: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills; strong telephone manner. Sales Tools Proficiency: Skilled in CRM software, plus solid working knowledge of Excel, Word, Outlook. Self-Starter: Autonomous, proactive, target-driven, and adept at managing multiple accounts. Travel: Full UK driving license and willingness to visit sites as needed. Desirable Qualifications Certifications or training in fire detection/alarm systems /and or smoke ventilation. (FIA) Background in M&E contracting, smoke control sales, or specification side of HVAC/fire safety systems. Established commercial network within the fire safety, ventilation, or building services industry. What FDS Group Offers Location: Based in Greenhithe, Kent Culture: Inclusive, growth-oriented company that values professional development and career progression. Specialisation: Unique niche in smoke ventilation and fire alarm system design, installation, and maintenance, delivering end-to-end fire safety solutions. Operational Focus: Dedicated maintenance division offering proactive preventative maintenance and 24-hour emergency response backed by technical expertise Benefits £45k - £55k OTE an additional £10k - £20k on hitting sales targets Car travel allowance Private healthcare on completion of probation