Russell Elder
Laurencekirk,Aberdeenshire
Summary
Results-driven Business Development and Sales Manager with 17+ years’ experience in office interiors, furniture, and workplace solutions. Proven track record of achieving and exceeding sales targets, building strong partner networks, and driving regional growth. Experienced in developing client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and delivering consistent results. Particularly focused on establishing and maintaining strong client relationships to drive consistent results and sustainable growth.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work history
Regional Sales Manager (Scotland, Ireland & Northern Ireland)
Orangebox
2024.01 - 2026.04
- Manage regional sales team across Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland
- Responsible for delivering regional sales targets and supporting team performance
- Develop strong relationships with key dealer partners and clients
- Support team development through coaching and guidance
- Contribute to regional growth through pipeline development and opportunity management
Business Development Manager (Scotland)
Orangebox
2021.01 - 2024.01
- Led regional sales strategy through dealer partner network across Scotland
- Strengthened and rebuilt key partner relationships post-COVID
- Identified and resolved underperforming partnerships to improve overall regional performance
- Collaborated cross-functionally with sales and support teams to enhance service delivery
Area Sales Manager (UK North & Ireland)
Spacestor
2018.10 - 2020.12
- Increased regional sales by 10% in first year
- Delivered record-breaking quarterly revenue (£1.03m vs £579k previous best)
- Developed strategic relationships across dealer and A&D sectors
- Introduced new product lines into Scotland, generating significant new business
- Expanded partner network into previously untapped regions
Business Development Manager / Head of Installations Service
Corporate Moves / Space Solutions
2017.09 - 2018.09
- Drove new business growth in furniture installation services
- Leveraged existing industry relationships to accelerate revenue generation
- Expanded operations into North West England, securing key clients quickly
- Identified cross-selling opportunities across wider group services
Business Development Manager
Arrow Business Communications / Orca Telecom
2016.10 - 2017.09
- Increased market presence across North East Scotland
- Generated new business opportunities in SME telecoms and data solutions
- Focused on Aberdeen and Dundee growth markets
Sales Executive / Director
Claremont Office Interiors
2009.03 - 2016.09
- Generated annual sales exceeding £1.3m consistently
- Managed full sales cycle from prospecting to installation
- Led and developed sales and operations teams
- Delivered large-scale tenders and project wins
- Contributed to ISO accreditation (9001, 14001, 18001)
- Developed marketing and digital sales strategies
HSBC Bank plc
2003.09 - 2009.02
- Coaching & Development Team Leader (2008–2009)
- Business Retention Team Leader (2005–2008)
Department Supervisor
Safeway
1996.04 - 2003.09
Education
BA (Hons) - Risk Management
Glasgow Caledonian University
HND - Business Administration
Bell College
HNC - Communications & Mass Media
Bell College
Skills
- Business Development & Revenue Growth
- Account & Relationship Management
- Sales Strategy & Execution
- Negotiation & Closing
- KPI & Performance Management
- Client Relationship Management & Retention
- Pipeline Development & Opportunity Management
- Team Collaboration & Support
- Competitor awareness
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Full UK Driving Licence
- References available on request
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Regional Sales Manager (Scotland, Ireland & Northern Ireland)
Orangebox
2024.01 - 2026.04
Business Development Manager (Scotland)
Orangebox
2021.01 - 2024.01
Area Sales Manager (UK North & Ireland)
Spacestor
2018.10 - 2020.12
Business Development Manager / Head of Installations Service
Corporate Moves / Space Solutions
2017.09 - 2018.09
Business Development Manager
Arrow Business Communications / Orca Telecom
2016.10 - 2017.09
Sales Executive / Director
Claremont Office Interiors
2009.03 - 2016.09
HSBC Bank plc
2003.09 - 2009.02
Department Supervisor
Safeway
1996.04 - 2003.09
HND - Business Administration
Bell College
HNC - Communications & Mass Media
Bell College
BA (Hons) - Risk Management
Glasgow Caledonian University