About the job
First Mile works with over 30,000 businesses across the UK, delivering recycling and waste management services. Clients include major brands such as Pret A Manger, Netflix, and Zara, as well as independent retailers, hospitality groups, universities, and public sector organizations. The company focuses on helping organizations reduce their environmental impact by providing efficient, adaptable, and high-standard waste and recycling solutions.
With sustainability now a priority for many businesses and regulations tightening, demand for scalable recycling options is growing. To meet this need, First Mile is growing its commercial team, especially to serve mid-tier and multi-site customers.
Role overview
The Business Development Executive will focus on acquiring new business, particularly among repeatable, multi-site, and mid-tier clients. The role involves identifying, nurturing, and closing opportunities typically valued between £15,000 and £100,000 per year. Most agreements are operational and do not require a formal tender process. Success in this position relies on strong pipeline management, consistent execution, and commercial acumen. The role covers the full sales cycle, from first contact through proposal, negotiation, and contract signing.
Key responsibilities
- Identify and secure new business within multi-site and operational client segments.
- Build and maintain relationships with decision-makers, including operations managers, facilities teams, and business owners.
- Lead meetings, conduct site assessments, and manage commercial negotiations.
- Create structured, tailored proposals to address customer needs.
- Negotiate pricing and service agreements to win new contracts.
- Develop and maintain a healthy pipeline of qualified opportunities.
- Work closely with Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) to convert qualified leads into actionable deals.
- Proactively generate new opportunities through outreach, networking, and sector engagement.
- Use Salesforce to track opportunities, including deal values, stages, and close dates.
- Keep momentum across multiple deals at once.
- Own the full sales cycle for opportunities ranging from £15,000 to £100,000.
Location
This role is based in Holborn, London, United Kingdom.

