Business Development Managers and Directors

Business development directors need 10 years of experience in lower level business development or sales positions. Managers must have at least five years of experience as associates or in deal-making positions at corporations, private equity firms, investment banks, or related employers. Ideal candidates have a proven track record of developing customer relationships and maintaining a steady deal pipeline.

Successful business development professionals have excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills. They also have strong presentation skills and powers of persuasion because they will first need to convince their superiors about the potential payoff of a proposed deal or strategy, and then convince the potential partner that the deal will be lucrative and beneficial to both parties. Other important traits include good quantitative, analytical, and research skills; determination; strong business and financial acumen; leadership ability; creativity; attentiveness to detail; an entrepreneurial mindset; the ability to handle pressure and meet deadlines; and proficiency in the use of spreadsheets, financial modeling software, and customer relationship management software.