Business Development Manager Jobs
Companies that settle into a comfortable place with their existing clients can quickly find themselves overwhelmed by a fast-changing world, especially when those clients move on. The business development manager (BDM) is there to identify potential openings and chase them up to win new, sustainable business for the company.
In many ways, business development manager jobs have similar responsibilities to regular sales jobs, but there are some subtle differences. Sales is a little more short-term, for example, following leads up responsively with an aim to closing the deal. The BDM, on the other hand, has more of a long-term, strategic approach to identifying new opportunities that includes, but is not limited to, individual customers.
The business development manager might therefore be involved with assembling an internal team that’s ready to face emerging challenges before they arrive so they can hit the ground running. That can be through recruitment or training, but with the overall strategic mindset, it can bear fruit for the company in the medium term.
Business Development Manager skills required
Business development managers are strategic thinkers – they are not just thinking about the next client win but are looking months and years ahead to how the industry and the company will look, and how best to manage it.
BDMs will also need to put their sales hat on quite regularly, however. Part of the business’s development is of course winning new contracts, so they will need to be able to communicate to other businesses the benefits of partnering with their company, so they will frequently be part of sales pushes and wooing new customers.
Business Development Manager Jobs in Avon
Located in the west of England, Avon is a region that was once designated a ceremonial county and was named after the River Avon.
In 1996, the borders were redrawn and the region ceased to be an official county - it's now covered by a number of local authorities, including Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, as well as the City of Bristol.
The region has long played an important part in the country's history and economic growth, particularly since it was home to the port of Bristol. From the 14th to 19th centuries, it processed cargo from around the world, particularly cotton and tobacco from America.
These days, opportunities for Business Development Manager roles in Avon can be found in a wide range of industries. There are numerous electronics and tech companies in the region, while the financial, communications and shipping industries also play a big part in the local economy.
One major employer is Defence Equipment & Support, which specialise in procurement for the MoD. Meanwhile, the aerospace industry holds a prominent position in Avon, with companies like BAE, Airbus, Rolls-Royce and Marconi having facilities in the area.
The Avon area is home to a number of universities and NHS trusts, while the tourism and retail sectors are also thriving, particularly in the larger towns and cities.
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Talk to Cast UK if you’re a BDM (or if you need one)
Great Business development managers have never been in such high demand, as competition for clients and a rapidly changing workplace is driving all industries in new directions. If you’ve been looking for a BDM but have been disappointed with the calibre of candidates, you need to talk to Cast UK.
We specialise in managerial roles across sectors, and can get you a fantastic shortlist drawn from all over the UK. Call 0333 121 3345 to speak to a recruitment expert.
Are you a talented BDM looking to fill a position with a great employer? Register with Cast UK by following the link below. We’ve got the contacts you need to make that step.
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