Business Development Managers are fundamental in any business – their role is to generate sales for an organisation from a new client base. They must identify new markets and opportunities, build relationships with clients and negotiate and close deals. A strong track record of business to business sales is essential.
The role of the Business Development Manager is to develop new business within a certain industry or geographical sector.
Candidates will be expected to use existing sales contacts to generate revenues, as well as identifying prospective clients within the target market.
Duties include:
Extensive market research.
Meeting potential clients.
Reporting sales activity and forecasts to senior management.
Manage pricing and margins within agreed limits.
Presenting sales proposals to customers.
Training and managing more junior employees.
Co-ordinating advertising and marketing plans.
Providing input into new and existing product development.
Identifying new opportunities.
Maintenance of internal reporting software.
Qualifications
No formal qualifications are needed, though sometimes employers will request that candidates are degree-educated. Employers are generally looking for a strong track record in a similar role.
Salary Snapshot
Recent salaries advertised on Clearly Sales Jobs (November 2009) include:
£30-35,000 plus benefits for a National Business Development Manager for an industrial door firm in the East Riding.
£60-150,000 for a Senior Business Development Manager for an e-commerce software company in Birmingham.
£25-40,000 plus benefits for a Business Development Manager for a Business Services company based in London.
£35,000 plus car for a Regional Business Development Manager for a glazing company in Kent.
