Business Development Manager
The dealmaker—business development managers identify opportunities, build relationships, and drive business growth through strategic partnerships.
What is a Business Development Manager?
The dealmaker and door-opener. Business development 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 storytelling, listening, and spotting alignment. These managers help shape the future of the agency—client by client, 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 strategist, 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 brand 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 Executive | Once business is won, AEs manage the day-to-day relationship and project execution. |
| Strategy Director | Partners with BDMs on scoping new opportunities and pitching strategic frameworks. |
| Creative Director | Shapes the creative vision BDMs present to prospective clients during pitches and proposals. |
| Marketing Manager | Supports lead generation efforts with campaigns, case studies, and content that attract prospects. |
