Business Development Director - Artificial Intelligence

About Version 1

Version 1 has marked 30 years in delivering Technology Services, supporting renowned global brands with solutions that enhance customer success. Our expertise aids customers in adapting to the rapidly evolving digital-first environment. We maintain strong partnerships with technology leaders such as Anthropic, Microsoft, AWS, Oracle, Red Hat, OutSystems, and Databricks, ensuring premium quality solutions and services.

Version 1 is recognized as an award-winning employer, proud of its employees who are central to our success. We are the UK & Ireland's leading AWS, Microsoft, OutSystems, and Oracle partner, hold Preferred Services Partner status within the Anthropic Partner Network, and operate with a workforce exceeding 4000 people and annual revenues around €400m/£450m. We have been named a Great Place to Work for over a decade in Ireland and the UK, and have been honored as the Best Workplace for Women and for Wellbeing in the UK & Ireland by the Great Place to Work organization.

Our company culture is deeply rooted in core values; we seek individuals aligned with these principles and recognize those who embody them, fostering growth in both directions.

Role Overview

As Business Development Director specializing in AI, your role centers on selling impactful AI solutions that drive substantial business outcomes—such as revenue increase, cost savings, accelerated decision-making, and enhanced customer satisfaction—across the UK and Ireland. You will leverage Version 1’s AI platform, including agentic AI, Generative AI, machine learning, and data-driven decision making, to shape and close opportunities. This includes independent pipeline development and collaboration with partners like AWS, Microsoft, and Anthropic to convert initial AI interest into funded initiatives. You will engage with senior executives around AI strategies and ROI, translating technical capabilities into tangible business value, while strengthening Version 1’s reputation as the authoritative partner in AI-driven transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Initiate and grow new business pipelines, securing deals across multiple sectors including Private, Public, and Financial Services by acquiring new clients and expanding existing accounts.
• While primarily focused on AI sales, apply comprehensive IT technology and services knowledge to identify broader Version 1 service opportunities for clients.
• Lead and manage sales opportunities from inception through to closure, whether self-generated, internally developed, or introduced via strategic partners.
• Scale small AI projects into larger engagements by integrating Version 1’s full range of services to fulfill client business goals.
• Drive the creation and presentation of customer-facing materials such as presentations, proposals, and tender responses, collaborating with account management, commercial operations, delivery teams, and partners.
• Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with channel partners such as Anthropic, AWS, Microsoft, Oracle, Databricks, and OutSystems to create synergistic business pipelines.
• Communicate the value propositions of Version 1’s AI offerings effectively via lead generation activities, event participation, presentations, and clear proposal documentation.
• Qualify sales opportunities thoroughly to ensure clarity on win strategies and differentiation to optimize the likelihood of success.
• Manage pipelines, perform financial forecasting, and track activities to meet financial KPIs including total contract value, annual contract value, and profit margins.
• Build enduring, profitable relationships with senior executives in key strategic and growth accounts.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to craft sales and marketing approaches that highlight Version 1’s AI solutions.

Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive expertise in crafting and selling AI solutions to both technological and business stakeholders, including C-suite level executives.
• Possession of or progress toward relevant AI certifications, demonstrating up-to-date knowledge of AI skills, market trends, and innovations.
• Ability to engage senior stakeholders on how AI delivers concrete business advantages.
• Proven determination, motivation, and personal drive to excel in competitive sales contexts.
• Consistent track record of meeting and exceeding sales goals against competitors, including global systems integrators and offshore consultancies.
• Skill in developing compelling AI value propositions that align technical features with business needs for senior stakeholders.
• Experience building and nurturing trusted customer relationships that can be leveraged effectively in this role.
• Effective influencing capabilities to coordinate cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment ensuring high-quality, timely customer outcomes.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting across all organizational levels internally and externally.
• Solid commercial awareness with a sound understanding of project management and business dynamics.

Additional Information and Benefits

• Competitive base salary accompanied by bonus schemes and the opportunity to participate in Version 1's Equity success program.
• Commitment to an inclusive work culture valuing diversity and fostering an environment supportive of all employees.
• Access to professional growth through peer mentorship, career development pathways, and modern learning platforms.
• Flexible working arrangements promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• A supportive team environment emphasizing collaboration, respect, and mutual assistance.
• AI-focused working environment providing access to cutting-edge AI models and technologies, including coaching on building AI-powered digital assistants to improve efficiency and innovation.
• Comprehensive benefits prioritizing employee well-being and financial security, such as private medical insurance, life coverage, free eye testing, and subsidized eyewear.
• Incentives to pursue certifications and accreditations in technologies like AWS, Microsoft, Oracle, and Red Hat.
• A technology scheme to ensure staff remain current with the latest tools and devices.