Business Development Manager - Creative Agency (Sport & Entertainment)

Designwerk.; London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic creative agency in London is seeking an experienced Business Development lead to forge relationships and win high-value work in the sports and entertainment sectors. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in business development, a strong network in the sports industry, and is comfortable working independently while collaborating closely with internal teams. This role offers a performance-based commission structure and a supportive, hybrid work environment.

Benefits

Performance-based commission and bonus scheme

Hybrid working (2 days/week in studio)

Private Medical Insurance

Pension

Birthday off

Regular team socials

Qualifications

• 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 experience in entertainment and media.
• Strong interpersonal skills—confident communicator and relationship builder.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities across target industries and prospects.
• Lead end-to-end responses to briefs, RFPs, and opportunities.
• Act as a trusted partner to clients during onboarding and project initiation.

Skills

Business development

Commercial acumen

Networking

Sales strategy

CRM tools

Tools

Google Workspace

Job description

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.