Business Development Specialist  

M2.0 is building its communications client portfolio and is in need of a business development manager who will qualify and prospect for new clients. The digital and public relations industry is unique in the sense that we do not sell products, the company is the product. In this light, the business development manager must not “sell” the company’s products, but rather communicate the company’s value proposition through networking, cold calling, and building relations with industry organizations and business partners. The business manager’s capacity to plan cannot be understated in this case, especially since the company sells consulting services, and not tangible products.

The business development manager will be working with the content marketing team, business unit leads, and other senior managers to manage activities that generate business for the company. Strategic planning is a key part of this job description since it is the business manager’s responsibility to develop the pipeline of new business coming into the company. This requires a deep knowledge of the market, the solutions/services the company can provide, and of the company’s competitors.

Key responsibilities

• Prospect for potential new clients and turn this into business for the agency.
• Meet potential clients by growing, maintaining, and leveraging relevant networks.
• Identify potential clients and the decision makers within the client organization.
• Research and build relationships with new clients.
• Set up meetings between client decision makers and company’s practice leaders/Principals.
• Plan approaches and pitches. Work with team to develop proposals that speak to the client’s needs, concerns, and objectives.
• Handle objections by clarifying, emphasizing agreements and working through differences to a positive conclusion.
• Present new services and enhance existing relationships.
• Attend industry functions, such as association events and conferences, and provide feedback and information on market and creative trends.
• Identify opportunities for campaigns, services, and distribution channels that will lead to an increase in sales.
• Forecast sales target and ensure they are met by the team.
• Ensure all team members represent the company in the best light.
• Understand the company’s goal and purpose so that will continual to enhance the company’s performance.

• Experience in Sales or Business Development is preferred, but not required
• Proficient in using MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Good presentation and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strategic prospecting ski​​​​​​lls
• Capacity in building and nurturing relationships with high-level managers and executives