Job Description

JOB PURPOSE:

Acuity Knowledge Partners is seeking a Director, Sales Manager for the EMEA Business Development team, based in London. This managerial role leads the Europe Asset Management business development function.

The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of the capital markets landscape, with deep experience in the buy-side (asset management, hedge funds, private wealth) and an established industry network. Alternatively, candidates with a proven track record in leading teams selling knowledge process outsourcing services to asset management clients are also suitable.

This quota-carrying role requires prior experience in managing and driving high-performance sales teams, with a hands-on approach to pipeline creation and deal closures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Run high-quality enterprise sales cycles, including:
   • Identifying and initiating new sales opportunities through prospecting
   • Leveraging existing client relationships to generate interest
   • Qualifying leads and creating demand
   • Developing compelling value propositions aligned with client needs
   • Negotiating and closing complex agreements
2. Set team goals, manage performance, and drive growth through existing and new clients.
3. Achieve sales targets by selling to new accounts and leveraging relationships for high-value services, including:
   • Investment Research
   • Financial Marketing Services
   • Data & Tech Services
   • Risk & Middle Office Support Services
   • Compliance Guideline services
4. Negotiate with senior executives to promote outsourcing and offshoring benefits.
5. Coordinate with subject matter experts and marketing teams across offshore and nearshore locations for comprehensive client coverage.
6. Manage and forecast the quarterly pipeline proactively.
7. Meet sales targets, build client relationships, and ensure satisfaction.
8. Maintain a high level of client centricity to protect existing accounts.
9. Travel as required.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a leading university
• Experience in front-office roles within Asset Management, Investment Banking, Investment Research, or Private Equity, with strong communication and negotiation skills
• Experience pitching to senior levels within Asset Management firms is highly desirable
• Experience in knowledge-based outsourcing or high-value consulting services is a plus
• Proven ability to develop new business opportunities and sell solutions to senior stakeholders
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and client relationship management skills
• Experience leading sales efforts, proposals, and deal closures
• Creative problem-solving skills and ability to diagnose and resolve issues
• Ability to multitask, meet deadlines, and work independently or in teams with attention to detail