Business Development Manager

Christchurch, Canterbury

Reference Number: 9128SIaa

Business Development Manager

Christchurch, Canterbury

  • Develop national fleet accounts in a growing market
  • Apply your B2B sales expertise and entrepreneurial mindset
  • Generate your own leads and build strategic partnerships
  • Excellent package: base + bonus + car!

 

Why NOVUS and Why Now?

A classic tale of Kiwi entrepreneurship, NOVUS was introduced to New Zealand in 1978 by partners Denis and Patricia James.  Now nearly 50 years on, NOVUS remains true to its co-founders' philosophy of aiming high and continuing to invest in people, brand and operations.  With a strong reputation and expertise, we're now New Zealand's leading auto glass franchise.

The vehicle glass market is shifting.  More business customers are looking at different ways of fleet management and care.  This creates real opportunity for organisations that need reliable, cost-effective windscreen repair solutions.

We're responding strategically by building a national fleet account business from scratch.  This is a new role in our business - an opportunity for an experienced BDM to take control and create a legacy within a proven and iconic New Zealand brand.

 

What's the role?

This is a foundation-building position.  You'll establish and grow our national fleet account business, developing strategic partnerships with fleet operators across New Zealand.

You'll own the complete sales cycle - from market research and lead generation through relationship building, contract negotiation and closure.  Initially, you'll work independently whilst establishing systems and processes from the ground up.  You'll be the architect of this new business stream.

Importantly, you'll collaborate closely with our network of independently owned franchises to expand their local client bases.  You'll work across sales, operations and product teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet customer needs and align with company goals.

Your priorities:

  • Develop relationships with existing national accounts
  • Actively pursue historically uninsured fleet operators
  • Position yourself as the first point of contact for customers exiting insurance glass cover
  • Support our franchise network with localised account setup and pricing structures
  • Investigate and resolve non-insurance customer issues in conjunction with the operations team

This isn't order-taking.  It's consultative selling where you'll need to understand fleet operators' challenges, ask smart questions, and position NOVUS as their partner of choice.

 

The practical details:

You'll be based in Wigram, Christchurch, but travel will be a major component of the role as you build relationships with fleet operators nationwide.  Training will be conducted at our Wigram branch, with a start date as soon as possible.

 

What skills and experience do I need?

This is first and foremost a sales role that will require an experienced salesperson who can provide evidence of a track record of successful B2B selling. 

  • Proven track record in business development, sales or account management
  • Automotive industry experience (though not essential - we're looking for great salespeople)
  • Consultative selling approach with self-generated lead experience
  • Strong understanding of market dynamics and customer needs
  • Professional presence for senior-level engagement
  • Strong analytical skills - ability to interpret data and spot trends
  • Excellent negotiation and problem-solving capabilities
  • Strategic thinking with entrepreneurial mindset
  • Proficient in CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or related field.


You'll also be able to demonstrate:

  • Hunter mentality: You thrive on building pipeline from scratch and opening doors with new clients.
  • Builds trust quickly: You establish credibility with business leaders and decision-makers.
  • People skills: An ability to work with all types of people - from franchise owners to fleet managers to workshop staff.
  • Results-driven: You consistently meet or exceed targets and take ownership of your outcomes.
  • Strong communicator: You articulate value clearly and confidently.
  • Self-starter: You take initiative, operate independently and collaborate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Commercially savvy: You understand how businesses make decisions and what drives value.

 

What’s the culture like?

You'll be surrounded by a small but great team who likes to excel in every aspect of business whilst having fun at the same time.  This is a non-corporate environment with genuine autonomy and the opportunity to learn new aspects of the business.

We're looking for someone who thrives on autonomy and sees opportunity in building something new.  If you need structure and established processes, this isn't the role for you.  If you're energised by creating your own path and establishing new systems within a supportive team environment, you'll fit right in.