Head of Commercial Development

Head of Commercial Development – Not-for-profit/Charity – Hospitality/Drinks Sector – Flexible Location (South of England) – £70,000 – £80,000 package plus excellent benefits 

Tonic is partnered with a UK-based, successful, commercially driven, not-for-profit/charity that is seeking to appoint a Head of Commercial Development to their SLT to play a vital role in their ongoing success for the years to come. This is a senior, externally facing role accountable for securing new high-value partnerships and identifying innovative commercial opportunities across the drinks and hospitality sectors.

What’s in it for the successful Head of Commercial Development? 

• Salary £60,000 – £70,000 commensurate with experience 
• Performance-related bonus scheme: 8% of salary 
• 10% employer pension contribution
• 3x salary life insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Free therapeutic wellbeing services 
• Private medical cover
• Fully paid expenses 

What are the key responsibilities of the role? 

• Lead on the strategy and execution of new business development, including pipeline generation, prospect research, segmentation, targeting, and reporting
• Cultivate high-value partnerships, from initial approach to proposal writing, pitching, closing, and stewardship
• Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, fundraising, programme delivery, and senior leadership to ensure outstanding partner experiences, and identify and develop innovative commercial initiatives
• Monitor and report on performance, targets, and milestones—highlighting risks and growth opportunities
• Act as a key external ambassador, representing the charity at events, industry functions, and high-level meetings
• Contribute to a strong team culture, sharing insights and mentoring colleagues where appropriate

Essential skills & experience to be considered for the Head of Commercial Development role –

• A strong track record of securing new high-value partnerships and meeting/exceeding commercial or fundraising targets
• Experience in business development, commercial partnerships, or corporate fundraising—ideally connected to the drinks or hospitality sectors
• Excellent strategic planning and pipeline management capabilities and a good understanding of Excel and CRM systems
• Skilled in writing compelling proposals, developing presentations, and confidently pitching to senior stakeholders
• Ability to lead conversations, understand partner motivations, and shape offers that balance charity needs with business goals
• Outstanding relationship management and communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire at all levels
• Comfortable working autonomously, with the initiative to spot and act on opportunities in a fast-moving environment

Personal attributes our client desires –

• Action-oriented: Takes initiative and works with pace to deliver results
• Customer-focused: Builds trust with internal and external stakeholders, always seeking to add value
• Strategic & organised: Thinks big while staying focused on detail and delivery
• Compassionate & empathetic: Understands and advocates for the people we support
• Interpersonally savvy: Builds rapport quickly and manages relationships with diplomacy and professionalism
• Confident around senior leaders: Can engage, influence, and communicate with senior industry stakeholders with ease