Business Development Manager
The dealmaker—business development managers identify opportunities, build relationships, and drive business growthNot just a buzzword—growth is the art and science of scaling businesses through strategy, creativity, and data-driven decision-making. through strategic partnershipsTwo brands, one mission—strategic partnerships create mutual value by combining audiences, resources, and expertise..
What is a Business Development Manager?
The dealmaker and door-opener. Business developmentGrowth with intent—business development focuses on expanding market reach, fostering partnerships, and generating new revenue opportunities. managers scout opportunity, pitch possibilities, and keep the agency pipeline full of bold, exciting work.
What does a Business Development Manager do?
They identify new clients, create partnerships, and expand existing accounts—all while balancing ambition with authenticity.
What does this role look like in a creative agency?
At RIOT, biz dev isn’t cold calls and pitch decks. It’s storytellingEmotion meets impact—storytelling is the heartbeat of branding, using narrative to connect with audiences and drive action., listening, and spotting alignment. These managers help shape the future of the agency—client by clientThe reason we do what we do—the client is the partner, the collaborator, and the audience we’re here to impress and grow with., brief by brief.
Dive Deeper
Business Development Managers (BDMs) are the growth engines behind creative agencies. They identify new opportunities, build strategic relationships, pitch agency capabilities, and help shape partnerships that drive revenue and reputation. Equal parts strategistThe big picture thinker—strategists use insight, data, and creativity to guide campaigns, shape messaging, and deliver results., networker, and closer, they turn relationships into results and position the agency for long-term success.
Related Glossary Terms
| Related Glossary Terms | Why It’s Relevant |
|---|---|
| Pitch Deck Development | BDMs often collaborate on or lead the creation of decks that communicate agency capabilities and sell ideas. |
| Brand Strategy | Understanding a potential client’s brandMore than a logo—brand is the essence of a company, shaping identity, reputation, and customer perception. needs helps BDMs tailor pitches and solutions that resonate. |
| Stakeholder Communication | Relationship-building relies on clear, strategic communication with key client decision-makers. |
| Creative Briefs | Post-win, BDMs often help transition business context into strategic briefs for the creative team. |
| Thought Leadership Content | Publishing insights positions the agency as an expert—BDMs use this to open doors and start conversations. |
Related Job Roles
| Related Job Roles | Why It’s Connected |
|---|---|
| Account ExecutiveThe client’s go-to strategist—account executives manage relationships, oversee projects, and ensure campaigns deliver impact, on time and on budget. | Once business is won, AEs manage the day-to-day relationship and project execution. |
| StrategyThe playbook for success—strategy defines where you're headed, how you'll get there, and what will set you apart. Director | Partners with BDMs on scoping new opportunities and pitching strategic frameworks. |
| Creative Director | Shapes the creative visionThe spark that starts it all—a concept is the big idea that shapes campaigns, guiding everything from visuals to messaging. BDMs present to prospective clients during pitches and proposalsFormal project or pitch documents—outline scope, pricing, and strategy to win work or secure signoff.. |
| MarketingStories with purpose—marketing connects brands to people through strategy, creativity, and campaigns that drive impact. Manager | Supports lead generationTurn interest into opportunity—lead gen is about attracting and capturing potential customers through targeted marketing efforts. efforts with campaignsStrategy meets storytelling—campaigns bring big ideas to life, driving awareness, engagement, and conversions through powerful, multi-channel messaging., case studies, and content that attract prospects. |
