Business Development Manager - Creative Agency (Sport & Entertainment)

Designwerk UK Ltd; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading creative agency in London is seeking a Business Development lead to build relationships and secure high-value projects in the sports, entertainment, and media sectors. This senior role demands expertise in business development, a strong network, and a proven track record in selling agency services. The position offers a hybrid working model with performance-based incentives and support for professional growth.

Benefits

Performance-based commission and bonus scheme

Hybrid working (2 days/week)

Private Medical Insurance

Pension

Birthday off

Regular team socials

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a business development or commercial role.
• Proven success in selling agency services in sports, entertainment, or media.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Lead responses to briefs, RFPs, and inbound opportunities.
• Act as a trusted partner during onboarding and project initiation.

Skills

Business development expertise

Networking skills

Communication skills

CRM tools proficiency

Tools

Google Workspace

Job description

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We're an award-winning, independent creative agency specialising in strategic brand and design solutions for the global sports and entertainment industries. For over 20 years, we've partnered with clients to create bold, memorable brand experiences.

About You

As we expand, we're looking for an experienced, commercially-minded Business Development lead to develop meaningful relationships, and win high-value work from ambitious clients across sport, entertainment and media sectors. Some non-negotiables:

• 5+ years in a business development or commercial role within a creative, media or branding agency
• Proven success selling agency services into the sports industry, with added experience in entertainment, streaming, or media sectors a strong advantage
• A credible and connected network in sports, media, or entertainment (clubs, federations, leagues, events, rights-holders, sponsors, or streaming platforms)
• Strong interpersonal skills-confident communicator and relationship builder
• Able to manage multiple leads, deadlines and stakeholders with ease
• Comfortable working independently while collaborating closely with internal teams
• High proficiency in Google Workspace, spreadsheets and CRM tools

The Opportunity

While our heritage is firmly in sport, you\'ll also explore and develop new opportunities within entertainment, media and live events, which are major growth areas for our business. We expect candidates to bring a strong, existing network within the sports industry, and a proven ability to sell creative services to senior decision-makers, from CMOs to Brand Directors. Please note, candidates who do not demonstrate these requirements will not be considered.

This is a senior, independent role ideal for someone who thrives on autonomy, wants to have a real impact on agency growth, and is energised by networking, pitching, and shaping strategic growth. You\'ll work directly with the senior leadership team, supported by an experienced creative team committed to design excellence and delivering outstanding client work.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Prospecting & Growth Strategy:
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities across target industries and prospects
• Leverage your network to build relationships with senior decision-makers
• Develop and manage outbound pipelines, including lead research and outreach strategies
• Implement and refine agency processes and tools that support new business growth

• Pitching & Conversion:
• Lead end-to-end responses to briefs, RFPs and inbound opportunities
• Collaborate with the studio team to craft compelling proposals, credentials and case studies
• Present proposals with confidence to prospects
• Manage scope creation, budget estimates and negotiations

• Client Development:
• Identify upsell opportunities with existing clients and ensure continued relationship growth
• Act as a trusted partner to clients and internal teams during onboarding and project initiation
• Represent the agency at key industry events

Benefits

• Performance-based commission and bonus scheme
• Hybrid working (2 days/week in our London Bridge studio)
• Travel opportunities
• Private Medical Insurance
• Pension
• Birthday off
• Regular team socials and networking opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative studio environment with space to grow

How to Apply

Send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your experience and why this opportunity excites you.