Business Development Manager

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How do you become a business development manager in the UK?

There is no single route into a career in business development. As a graduate, you might be able to apply for a graduate scheme in busines development, alternatively you might work in a related field undertaking similar work, allowing you to move into this role.

What qualifications are needed to become a business development manager?

While employers will expect good levels of English and maths – there are no set qualifications required in general and it is possible to move into this area without a degree from related roles in, for example, sales.

However, larger organisations, may recruit through graduate schemes and degrees with a business focus such as business studies, finance and marketing would be particularly relevant. However, if you have a degree in a different field – such as law, healthcare, education this could open opportunities in those sectors.

What skills do you need?

Certain core skills are essential in this role:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to engage with customers
• Confidence and ability to persuade as you’ll be contacting potential leads directly
• Excellent communication skills to pitch your proposals in a clear and engaging way
• Business acumen, commercial awareness and interest in developing businesses.

In addition to these core skills, a range of others may be needed including:

• Teamworking when working collectively within a larger organisation
• Excellent written skills, to produce materials, reports, etc
• Negotiation skills and the ability to make sound business decisions.

How much do business development managers get paid?

With such a varied role, varied employer base and such variations between the sectors in which business development managers work, it is hard to estimate a salary. Typical starting salaries would usually be in the region of £25,000. With experience, responsibility and a demonstrable track record, salaries increase significantly. In some sectors, more senior managers will be earning in excess of £60,000 and often roles will earn commission or bonus, which can make a significant difference. However, as noted, these will vary considerably.

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