How to become a business development manager

While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a business development

manager, there are several routes you could take to help you pursue this career. You
could complete a university or college course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to
an employer for work.

You should explore these routes to becoming a business development manager, to

find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain
qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are
enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

University
You could complete an undergraduate degree in business development, business
management, economics or accountancy, to develop your knowledge and become
qualified for a career as a business development manager.

You’ll need 2 - 3 A levels, or equivalent, for an undergraduate degree.

College/training provider
While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a business development
manager, having GCSEs (or equivalent) in maths and English at grade 4 or above
would be beneficial for anyone considering this as a career, as the role requires a good
standard of numeracy and literacy.

You could also undertake a college course in sales or business, to prepare you for
becoming a business development manager.

If you are already working in a junior business management role, you could improve
your knowledge by completing a Level 2 or Level 3 award in business development or
sales.

Apprenticeship
You could complete a degree apprenticeship in sales or business development to help
you become a business development manager.

You'll need 4 - 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a

degree apprenticeship.

Work
If you’re considering a job as a business development manager, you could apply to
begin your career as an assistant or trainee within a construction company. As you
become more experienced, your employer might offer training to help you progress in
the role.

If you already hold GCSEs or A levels (or equivalent), or a degree, and have proven
experience in sales or business management, you may be able to apply to an
employer directly for a role as a business development manager.

Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry.
You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company
or relative who works as a business development manager. Potential employers will
always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

Skills
Desirable skills which will be helpful for anyone looking to become a business
development manager include:

• A drive to seek new business

• Excellent telephone skills
• Strong verbal and written communication
• Good IT skills
• Initiative and good decision-making skills
• Project management skills
• Strong organisational skills
• Strategic and analytical thinking skills
• Ability to write reports.