Client Development Director 

Permanent
Location: London
Hours: Full time, Monday - Friday, 40 hours per week
Pay: £65,000 - £75,000 pa

Drive Growth. Shape Markets. Lead Relationships.

Wilson James is seeking an exceptional Client Development Director to lead the delivery of our Aviation Growth Strategy, aligned with our ambitious 7-year growth forecast. This is a pivotal commercial and strategic leadership role, responsible for securing new business, building high-value relationships, and positioning Wilson James at the forefront of the UK and international aviation and transport sectors.

As our Client Development Director, you'll work closely with the Managing Director – Aviation & Transport to identify, develop and win opportunities across UK airports, airlines, international aviation companies, and adjacent transport sectors. You'll be a confident relationship-builder, an astute strategist, and a dynamic deal-maker who thrives on driving long-term growth.

About the Role:

As a Client Development Director you will be responsible for:

• Lead & Deliver the Growth Strategy – Own and execute the aviation and transport growth plan, informed by robust market insight and aligned to forecast milestones.

• Drive New Business – Build and manage a weighted pipeline, creating and delivering winning proposals in partnership with our Bid Team and Regional Business Directors.

• Shape Market Positioning – Lead competitor analysis, translate intelligence into action, and help shape service innovation and commercial propositions.

• Strengthen Client Relationships – Develop and maintain influential, decision-level connections with target clients, supporting retention and renewal strategies.

• Champion Retention & Win Strategies – Reduce unnecessary retenders and secure contract extensions through proactive engagement and strategic alignment.

• Represent the Brand – Act as an ambassador for Wilson James at industry events, ensuring our reputation for excellence is reinforced and expanded.

Why Join Us?

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days
• Lifestyle Benefits – Mortgage and financial advice, vouchers for various shopping outlets and food stores, employee referral scheme. 
• Learning & Development – we actively encourage progression and offer various eLearning courses, progression, training whilst on site, apprenticeships, and in-house training courses.  
• Health and Wellbeing – Life assurance scheme, access to mental health support specialists
• Access to an Online GP for you and your dependents. 
• Financial support 
• Discounts on hundreds of retail sites
• Progression opportunities – many of our team go on to senior and site management roles
• A welcoming, respectful team culture
• Cycle to Work scheme

What we are looking for:

• • Proven senior-level experience in the aviation sector, with an established UK industry network.

  • Demonstrated success in business development, client strategy or commercial leadership.

  • Strong commercial acumen, able to shape compelling value propositions and interpret complex proposals.

  • Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills at C-suite level.

  • Track record of working effectively in matrix environments and cross-functional teams.

  Desirable:

  • International aviation exposure.

  • Experience in other transport sectors such as rail, ferry, or logistics.

  • Familiarity with CRM systems.

Interested? Apply now and have your career take off with us! 
Please be aware that, on occasion, we may close a vacancy earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive a high volume of strong applications

Wilson James is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. A criminal conviction will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position, however each case will be assessed on an individual basis. For information about Wilson James' commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, https://wilsonjames.co.uk/sustainability 
Wilson James have been raising standards in security, construction logistics, aviation services, and technology for over 30 years. With 5,000 employees and a presence across over 300 client sites all over the UK, we are dedicated to delivering tailored solutions and top-tier customer service. As a leading managed service provider, we prioritise safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Joining Wilson James offers the excitement of working with diverse, vibrant clients, making for a dynamic and engaging workplace.   

Internal Applicants
At Wilson James, we support career growth and offer internal mobility to help employees explore new roles and advance within the company. Committed to promoting from within, we provide clear career pathways and continuous skill development. Unlock your potential by applying for exciting internal opportunities and new challenge