Principal Payments Business/Relationship Development Consultant

Location: Hammersmith, Hybrid

Package: 100k - 120k (flexible) + 20% bonus

Role Type: Permanent, Full time

Your New Role

We're seeking a proven hunter-closer with deep payments industry knowledge to lead strategic growth initiatives in the UK and beyond. This is a hands-on, senior-level business development role, focused on cultivating partnerships with Payment Service Providers (PSPs), merchant acquirers, and key players across the embedded payments ecosystem.

You'll be the driving force behind building and managing a robust pipeline, identifying high-value opportunities, and closing complex commercial deals, while nurturing long-term relationships to expand acceptance, transaction volume, and revenue.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, secure, and grow partnerships with PSPs, merchant acquirers, and embedded payment providers.
• Manage the full sales cycle, from targeted lead generation and cold outreach to closing and implementation.
• Develop tailored proposals, respond to RFPs, and negotiate commercial terms.
• Act as the strategic link between partners and internal teams to ensure seamless execution.
• Maintain an in-depth understanding of the UK/European PSP and acquirer landscape.
• Keep ahead of emerging trends such as QR payments, mobile, and embedded finance.
• Collaborate with internal teams to gain approval for new initiatives and ensure all deals meet compliance and governance standards.

What We're Looking For

Essential

• Proven "hunter" mentality, track record of closing significant commercial partnerships.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Experience on the acquirer side or a deep understanding of merchant acquiring processes.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial or start-up style environment.
• Excellent communication and commercial acumen.

Desirable

• Experience with Mastercard, Visa, or payment network governance.
• Cold calling and proactive lead generation expertise.
• Partner selling and joint initiative development experience.
• Knowledge of QR code payment solutions.

Ideal For

A payment professional who thrives on building new relationships, enjoys working across the PSP and merchant acquiring ecosystem, and isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves to make deals happen.