Partner, Business Development Lead, Occupier Strategy & Solutions EMEA

Who are we

Founded in 1896, Knight Frank was registered as Knight Frank LLP a Limited Liability Partnership, on 3 November 2003, registered in England & Wales at 55 Baker Street, London, W1U 8AN with the registered number of OC305934. Headquartered in London, UK, Knight Frank is one of the world's leading independent real estate consultancies. We work responsibly in partnership to enhance people's lives and environments in over 50 Markets, 600+ Offices, 20,000+ People, 1 Global Network.

At the heart of all we do are our Clients. A relationship built on trust is vital. As trusted partners in property, we act with integrity and care, understanding our clients’ unique needs and consistently thinking about the bigger picture to provide personalised, clear and considered advice across all areas of property. Through our deep understanding of key markets and sectors – both emerging and established – we are dedicated to meeting and exceeding their property goals.

A true partnership is a balanced one, and our People are passionate about, and committed to, making our business inclusive and diverse. We give every individual the space and opportunity to perform at their best and be recognised for the immense value they bring. We empower everyone to have autonomy in their role and encourage them to use their voice in how we can make a positive impact as a firm and shape the future of real estate, the built environment and the impact on the communities we serve. Our collaborative and engaged teams provide excellent and dedicated client service. In our workplace, opinions are respected, everyone is invited to contribute to the success of our business and innovation, and new ideas are celebrated.

In 2021 we celebrated our 125th anniversary and set out Our Desired Future, cemented in three pillars: People Potential, Client Centricity and always Creating our Future, together. Learn more about what sets us apart here.

About The Role

The Client Development Lead will drive proactive business development across EMEA, developing and converting new opportunities for our occupier services platform. You will shape our go‑to‑market strategy, lead targeted pursuits, and coordinate cross‑functional teams to strengthen our market presence and secure high‑value client engagements.

What you will be responsible for

Business Development & Growth

• Lead the identification, qualification and conversion of new business opportunities across EMEA for the OSS platform.
• Proactively develop relationships with key occupier decision‑makers, building a pipeline aligned to regional growth priorities.
• Work closely with OSS Leadership, Service Line Leads and Partners to develop and execute go‑to‑market strategies for priority sectors and target clients.
• Drive strategic cross‑selling across Transaction Management, Account Management, Workplace, and Portfolio Strategy.

Client Insight & Strategy

• Develop a deep understanding of client business drivers, portfolio challenges and industry trends to inform tailored solutions.
• Work with the Solutions team to refine our value proposition and ensure our approach reflects evolving occupier priorities (technology, workplace, ESG, cost optimisation, etc.).
• Regularly analyse market and client feedback to improve our pursuit methodology and commercial approach.

Sales Operations & Reporting

• Partner with Sales Leads to run regional sales calls and track progress against pursuit and revenue targets.
• Maintain the accuracy of sales pipeline reporting and ensure opportunities are effectively progressed through the CRM.
• Oversee (via the wider team) the development and maintenance of key credentials, case studies, metrics and sales collateral.

Commercial Leadership

• Support the development of commercial models, fee structures and resourcing plans for new opportunities.
• Contribute to commercial and contractual negotiations alongside Partners, Growth Leads and Legal.
• Ensure all pursuits adhere to internal governance and compliance processes.

What experience you will need

• 7–10+ years in business development, client solutions, account management or consulting within Corporate Real Estate, advisory, or related professional services.
• Proven track record of winning and developing multimarket or strategic occupier accounts.
• Strong narrative and proposal writing skills; able to craft compelling value propositions.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and influencing skills within complex, matrixed organisations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and manage multiple pursuits simultaneously.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset with the ability to challenge conventional thinking and shape creative, client‑focused solutions.
• Knowledge of the occupier landscape, particularly Transaction Management, Brokerage, Workplace Strategy and Portfolio Analytics.

Competitive salary

Please note: this is a Direct Search led by Knight Frank. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted nor will fees be paid for unsolicited CVs, even if provided by PSL agencies.