Business Development Manager
Business development managers build relationships with customers, suppliers and partners. They help businesses grow and improve.
Day-to-day Tasks
- research organisations to find new customers
- 'cold call' to arrange meetings at customers' premises
- find out what an organisation needs and plan proposals and pricing
- sell products and services to new and existing customers
- negotiate with customers and build positive relationships
- attend events and conferences
- write reports and make presentations to customers and senior management
- identify new methods and opportunities for sales campaigns
- forecast sales targets and make sure they're met
- run training for business developers and junior sales teams
Skills and Knowledge
- the ability to sell products and services
- business management skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- leadership skills
- customer service skills
- persuading skills
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Industry Qualifications
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
Employers will also usually want you to have experience in sales, marketing or business management. Work experience, internships or year in industry placements can help you gain commercial skills.
You could join the The Managing & Marketing Sales Association, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.