Business Development Specialist

Full-time, Fixed Term (12 months with potential to become permanent)

St John of God University Hospital

Programmes: Mental Health First Aid Ireland and The Working Mind

St John of God University Hospital is inviting applications for the role of Business Development Specialist to support the continued growth and national reach of Mental Health First Aid Ireland and The Working Mind. These evidence-based training programmes equip organisations and communities with the knowledge and confidence to promote mental health and wellbeing.

This is an opportunity for a relationship driven professional who can connect confidently with organisations across a wide range of sectors and who is motivated by delivering purposeful work with clear social impact.

Purpose of the Role

The Business Development Specialist will lead the development and management of relationships with organisations that engage with our training programmes. The role focuses on attracting new organisational clients, supporting existing partners and reactivating previous contacts. A key component of the role is ensuring a positive and consistent experience from first enquiry through to programme delivery and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

Identify, engage and secure new organisational clients across corporate, public sector, community, education and healthcare settings

Respond to enquiries, provide clear programme information and support organisations in selecting appropriate training pathways

Undertake proactive outreach, to grow programme visibility and uptake

Maintain relationships with existing clients and support repeat or ongoing programme participation

Reactivate dormant accounts and rebuild relationships where appropriate

Coordinate organisational onboarding and scheduling with internal programme teams

Lead on the coordination and analysis of client engagement surveys to support service improvement and client retention

Skills and Experience

A minimum of 4 years’ relevant experience in organisational engagement, client relationship management or programme coordination, ideally within a healthcare, education or regulated service environment

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and maintain professional relationships

Experience engaging organisations or clients in a structured environment

Confidence in outreach activity, including cold engagement when required

Strong organisational and planning skills with a high level of attention to detail

Experience using CRM systems or similar platforms

Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain consistent follow-up

Clear verbal and written communication skills

Desirable

Experience in mental health, healthcare, education or a regulated service setting

Understanding of training delivery, adult learning or workforce development

Familiarity with workplace wellbeing or community engagement initiatives

Professional Attributes

Proactive and self-directed, with a commitment to high-quality engagement

Skilled at listening, relationship building and representing programmes with professionalism

Reliable and consistent in approach, with strong follow-through

Able to work with sensitivity and discretion when handling organisational or personal information

Values aligned with the ethos and mission of St John of God University Hospital