Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
How to Become a Business Development Manager in Australia: careers in Business Management
19 Courses
Displaying 6 of 19 courses
Location
IndustryShow more...
Study ModeShow more...
Payment OptionsShow more...
QualificationShow more...
Course ProviderShow more...
Definition of a Business Development Manager
The role of a Business Development Manager is both dynamic and rewarding, offering professionals the opportunity to drive growth and innovation within an organisation. These individuals are pivotal in identifying new business opportunities, building relationships with potential clients, and enhancing the company’s market presence. By understanding customer needs and aligning them with the organisation’s offerings, Business Development Managers play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of their companies.
In this position, the responsibilities are diverse and engaging. Business Development Managers often engage in market research to identify trends and opportunities, develop strategic plans to penetrate new markets, and collaborate with various departments to ensure that the company’s goals are met. They are also responsible for nurturing existing client relationships, ensuring customer satisfaction, and identifying upselling or cross-selling opportunities. This multifaceted role requires a blend of analytical skills, creativity, and strong interpersonal abilities.
Common tasks for a Business Development Manager include conducting presentations to potential clients, negotiating contracts, and attending industry events to network and promote the company’s services. They often work closely with sales and marketing teams to develop promotional strategies that resonate with target audiences. The role is not only about closing deals but also about fostering long-term partnerships that contribute to sustained business success.
Overall, a career as a Business Development Manager is ideal for those who thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy the challenge of driving business success. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a significant impact on an organisation’s trajectory, this career path is both fulfilling and essential in today’s competitive landscape.
On this Page
What Will I Do
What Skills Do I Need
Career Snapshot
Resources
What does a Business Development Manager do?
A Business Development Manager plays a crucial role in driving the growth and success of an organisation by identifying new business opportunities and fostering relationships with clients. This position requires a blend of strategic thinking, market analysis, and interpersonal skills to effectively promote products and services that meet customer needs. Daily tasks often involve engaging with clients, assessing market trends, and collaborating with various teams to ensure the alignment of business objectives.
- Client Engagement – Visits regular and prospective client businesses to establish and act on selling opportunities.
- Needs Assessment – Assesses customers’ needs and explains the goods and services which meet their needs.
- Product Promotion – Promotes the organisation’s ICT goods and services to existing and prospective clients.
- Market Research – Conducts market research to identify trends and opportunities for business growth.
- Relationship Management – Maintains and nurtures relationships with key customer accounts.
- Sales Strategy Development – Develops and implements sales strategies to achieve business objectives.
- Collaboration – Works closely with marketing and product development teams to align offerings with market demands.
- Reporting – Prepares reports on sales performance and market conditions for management review.
- Networking – Attends industry events and networking functions to build connections and promote the organisation.
- Training and Development – Participates in training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
What skills do I need to be a Business Development Manager?
A successful Business Development Manager requires a diverse set of skills that blend strategic thinking with interpersonal acumen. Key competencies include strong communication skills, which are essential for building relationships with clients and stakeholders. Additionally, analytical skills are crucial for assessing market trends and identifying new business opportunities. A solid understanding of sales techniques and negotiation strategies is also vital, as these professionals often engage in discussions that can significantly impact the company’s growth and profitability.
Moreover, adaptability and problem-solving abilities are important traits for navigating the dynamic business landscape. A Business Development Manager should be proficient in project management to oversee initiatives from conception to execution. Familiarity with digital marketing and technology trends can further enhance their effectiveness in promoting products and services. Ultimately, a combination of these skills enables Business Development Managers to drive growth and foster long-term partnerships within their industry.
Skills/attributes
- Strong communication skills
- Negotiation abilities
- Strategic thinking
- Market research proficiency
- Relationship management
- Sales acumen
- Project management skills
- Analytical skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Team collaboration
- Customer-focused mindset
- Understanding of financial principles
- Networking skills
- Time management
Does this sound like you?
Career Snapshot for a Business Development Manager
ICT Business Development Managers play a crucial role in identifying and generating new business opportunities within the information and communications technology sector. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and promote relevant products and services. This career is characterised by a blend of technical knowledge and sales acumen.
- Average Age: 42 years
- Gender Distribution: 21% female
- Hours Worked: Average of 43 hours per week, with 93% working full-time
- Employment Numbers: Approximately 4,600 individuals are employed in this role
- Projected Growth: Employment growth is anticipated, although specific annual growth rates are not available
- Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for this occupation is not specified
This career path is particularly prominent in states such as New South Wales (43.4%) and Victoria (29.3%), with opportunities spanning various industries including professional services, telecommunications, and wholesale trade. As the demand for ICT solutions continues to rise, the role of Business Development Managers is expected to remain vital in driving business success.
Source: ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing.
Business Management Career resources
NATIONAL
QLD
VIC
WA
SA
NT
ACT
© 2025 StudySelect. All Rights Reserved.
Disclaimer: Career FAQs Pty Ltd ABN 39 299 617 067 t/a StudySelect markets the education and training services of a range of Australian tertiary course providers, and receives a commission for each prospective student. StudySelect is not an education provider. All material and information regarding our education providers and their courses – on our site, via email, or over the phone – is delivered through our capacity as their agent. The material shared with you on the website is provided as general information only. It is not intended as professional advice, and should not be taken as such. All information is provided in good faith, and is believed to be accurate and current as at the date of publication. However, StudySelect provides no guarantee that any information or material on the website, or linked websites, will be accurate or complete. Please see our privacy policy for more information.