Business development executive
A business should actively seek new opportunities for several compelling reasons.
The business landscape is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and changes in the competitive environment.
A company must adapt and expand its horizons to remain relevant and competitive. New opportunities can lead to revenue growth, market diversification, and increased profitability.
The role of a business development executive is integral in this process. Business development executives are tasked with identifying, evaluating, and capitalizing on new opportunities.
What is a business development executive?
A business development executive is responsible for identifying and creating growth opportunities.
This specialist is a forward-thinker, always looking for new opportunities, markets, and partnerships that can drive the company’s success.
Business development executives are also often involved in various aspects of business growth, including in the following:
- Market survey
- Partnership development
- Sales strategy
- Client relationship management
In other words, they expand a company’s market presence, increasing revenue and ensuring its long-term success.
Duties of a business development executive
The responsibilities of a business development executive can vary from one organization to another.
The following core duties are typically associated with this role:
- Market analysis – A business development executive must analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and industry developments to identify growth opportunities.
- Strategic planning – A dedicated business development executive implements strategies to expand the company’s market presence and achieve revenue goals.
- Sales strategy – A business development executive collaborates with the sales team to design effective sales strategies that drive revenue growth.
- Competitor analysis – Being a business development executive involves keeping a close eye on the competition to identify areas where the company can gain a competitive edge.
Skills and requirements needed in a business development executive
A specific set of skills and qualifications are required to excel as a business development executive.
Here are some of the key skills you should look for in a candidate:
Sales and marketing acumen
A business development executive must have a strong grasp of sales and marketing principles.
In sales, a business development executive must be adept at lead generation, which involves identifying and attracting potential clients or partners. This skill is the lifeblood of revenue generation and growth.
Business development executives need to know how to present the company’s products or services in a way that differentiates them from competitors and resonates with the target market.
Strategic thinking
As mentioned earlier, this professional is responsible for charting the course of the business’s growth. Strategic thinking involves addressing immediate needs and looking at the big picture and long-term objectives.
This skill enables a business development executive to make informed decisions and plan for the future. It ensures the company remains agile and responsive to a dynamic business environment.
Negotiation skills
Skillful negotiation can be the turning point between a successful deal that advances the business’s interests and a missed opportunity.
A business development executive must understand the motivations and needs of all parties involved, find common ground, and offer mutually beneficial agreements.
Industry knowledge
In-depth knowledge of the industry in which the company operates is indispensable. A business development executive must be well-versed in market dynamics.
This knowledge equips this professional to identify opportunities that align with the company’s strengths and can help it stay ahead of competitors.
Tech-savviness
An ideal candidate must be familiar with the relevant software and tools. Being tech-savvy empowers business development executives to:
- Streamline processes
- Analyze data for insights
- Leverage digital platforms for marketing and outreach
For instance, customer relationship management (CRM) systems are indispensable for managing client interactions and tracking leads.
A business development executive should also be proficient in data analysis tools, social media platforms, and communication technologies.
Where to hire a business development executive
Various sources and platforms can be explored when hiring a business development executive. The choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Here are some of the most common places to find talented business development professionals:
Freelance websites
Platforms like the following offer a pool of freelance business development executives, often experts in different fields:
You can post your job requirements, review profiles, and engage candidates based on their experience and track record.
Freelance platforms are ideal for short-term projects or when you need a specific skill set for a limited time.
Social media and networking
Traditional job boards like the following are excellent options for hiring full-time or part-time business development executives:
These platforms allow you to post job openings, search for candidates, and review their resumes and recommendations. You can also leverage their search and recommendation features to find candidates that match your specific criteria.
Salary comparison
According to Payscale.com, the average annual salary of a business development executive in the Philippines is $7,133. Meanwhile, in the United States, it’s $84,266.
Here is the breakdown of the salary comparison for this role in the two countries from the same source:
| Junior | Mid | Senior | |
| USA | $61,265 | $78,564 | $115,311 |
| Philippines | $6,247 | $9,567 | $11,119 |
On-site vs. Remote setup for a business development executive
The choice between an on-site and remote business development executive depends on your company’s specific needs and preferences.
Each setup has its advantages and disadvantages:
On-site business development executive
Pros:
- Immediate access to team members and resources
- Better control over work hours and supervision
- More efficient collaboration for certain tasks
Cons:
- Higher overhead costs for office space and equipment
- Limited access to a global talent pool
- Commute and geographical restrictions for potential candidates
Remote business development executive
Pros:
- Access to a global talent pool, allowing you to find the best-fit candidate
- Reduced overhead costs, as there’s no need for office space
- Increased flexibility in work hours and location
Cons:
- Requires effective communication and project management tools
- Potential challenges in team bonding and collaboration
- Dependence on self-discipline and motivation for remote employees
Ultimately, the decision depends on your organization’s specific requirements and ability to manage and communicate with remote team members effectively.
Many businesses today opt for a combination of on-site and remote setups to leverage the advantages of each.
Business development executive job description template
Here, we have a job description template that is a comprehensive guide for recruiters seeking an exceptional business development executive.
It outlines the key responsibilities, qualifications, and application process, clearly showing the role’s requirements and expectations within the organization.
Feel free to customize this template to match your company’s needs and preferences.
Moreover, you may use these interview guide questions to elevate your recruitment process and hire the right candidate fit for this role.
Independent
