Principal, Business Development

At Unispace, we create spaces that empower people and businesses to thrive. We are a global design-build partner delivering workplace and life sciences projects for some of the world’s most innovative brands.

With over 500 people across four continents, we bring together strategy, design, project management, and delivery into one seamless experience. Our integrated approach enables us to move with agility, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us create better experiences for our clients and each other.

At Unispace, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work alongside talented global teams, and grow your career in an environment that encourages innovation and new ideas.

Role Profile

We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Principal, Business Development to join our Client Solutions team and play a pivotal role in driving business growth, strengthening client partnerships and expanding our market presence in the South Island and across New Zealand. 

In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing regional business development strategies, identifying new opportunities and building long-term relationships with both new and existing clients. You will be working collaboratively with our regional teams, and will champion innovative approaches to business development.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic relationship builder who thrives on delivering results, influencing stakeholders, and contributing to the continued growth of a global business.

Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To

• Develop and execute a targeted business development strategy aligned with regional business objectives to drive sustainable growth.
• Identify, pursue and convert new business opportunities through strategic networking, lead generation, market intelligence and proactive client engagement.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key clients, prospective clients and industry stakeholders, positioning Unispace as a trusted workplace partner.
• Analyse market trends, client insights and lead sources to inform business development priorities and identify emerging opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Design, Delivery and Global Business Development teams to develop integrated strategies, strengthen client engagement and maximise cross-regional opportunities.
• Lead and support client engagement initiatives, industry events and research activities that enhance brand visibility and generate new business opportunities.
• Champion effective CRM management, business development processes and data-driven reporting to support pipeline visibility, informed decision-making and continuous improvement.

About You

You are an accomplished business development leader with strong commercial acumen, an established network of contacts and a proven ability to build meaningful client relationships that translate into business growth.

You bring extensive knowledge of the local Christchurch market, industry trends and competitive landscape, combined with a strategic mindset and a proactive approach to identifying and securing new opportunities.

You will also bring:

• Proven experience developing and executing successful business development strategies, consistently achieving growth targets and generating new business opportunities.
• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining senior-level client relationships and influencing key decision-makers.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to engage and influence at all levels.
• Strong commercial awareness, analytical capabilities and the ability to translate market intelligence into actionable business strategies.
• A collaborative and adaptable approach, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary team.
• Resilience, initiative and a results-oriented mindset, with a passion for innovation, continuous improvement and delivering exceptional client outcomes.

Above all, you are a natural relationship builder and an inspiring leader who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is motivated by making a meaningful impact.

What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being.

Join Us

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world’s most recognisable commercial design projects, then please apply through our careers page, or reach out to one of our Talent Partners.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle where required by applicable law.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Unispace, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams, our culture, and the work we deliver for our clients. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.